SAPS Patrol Dog Shot Dead While Chasing Armed School Robbery Suspects In Eastern Cape

The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed the death of patrol dog Floppy, who was fatally shot while helping officers track down armed robbery suspects in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape.

The K9 Unit dog was deployed during a police operation on Friday after three armed men allegedly robbed a local school before fleeing into dense vegetation. His body was recovered days later following an extensive search effort.

SAPS Patrol Dog Floppy Killed During Suspect Pursuit

SAPS patrol dog Floppy was assisting officers in the search for armed robbery suspects linked to an incident at Nzuzo Primary School. Police said the suspects allegedly stole 20 laptops, 15 cellphones and the headmaster’s vehicle during the robbery.

According to Eastern Cape police, members of the Mdantsane Flying Squad quickly located the stolen Peugeot about one kilometre from the school. The suspects were then seen running into nearby bushes next to a dam.

Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Vuyisile Ncata said the K9 Unit was called in to assist.

“The K9 Unit was summoned, and Sergeant Don, together with his patrol dog B8088 Floppy, cornered the suspects in dense bush.

“When the suspects ran further into thick vegetation, the handler released the dog to apprehend them.

“Shortly thereafter, the handler heard a suspect shouting from inside the bush, followed by the sound of gunshots.”

Search Teams Locate Floppy’s Body In Dense Mdantsane Bush

SAPS patrol dog Floppy did not return after entering the thick vegetation. Police immediately launched air and ground searches in an effort to locate the animal.

Ncata said the operation continued throughout Friday afternoon before being suspended due to poor visibility.

Search and Rescue teams resumed efforts and eventually found Floppy’s body on Monday afternoon in the dense bushes of NU-16 in Mdantsane.

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SAPS said: “Floppy’s body was recovered around 1pm with gunshot wounds.

“The suspects are still at large. Police are urging anyone with information that could lead to the arrest of the suspects to contact the nearest police station.”

Eastern Cape Police Hunt Armed School Robbery Suspects

Eastern Cape police have warned that the suspects remain dangerous and are still on the run. Investigators are continuing to pursue leads linked to both the robbery and the killing of the police dog.

Ncata described the suspects as heavily armed and urged the public to assist police with information that could help secure arrests.

“Three armed suspects remain at large after fleeing into dense bush and are considered extremely dangerous.”

The investigation into the school robbery and the death of Floppy remains ongoing.