A passionate K9 handler, Sergeant Gaogakwe Mabaso, was handed a Commendation Certificate while his Fire Detection dog, Erin, received a Medal for dedication, commitment and appreciation for canine services. The handing over took place during a weekly Operation Shanela parade today at Westpol Square parking.
The memorable moment for Mabaso and his dog, began when they assisted in solving a robbery, murder and arson case. The crimes were committed on Tuesday, 10 October 2018, in Tlokweng village, Madikwe. It was reported at the time of the incident that four suspects stormed Sunrise shop, then robbed the shop owner of an undisclosed amount of cash and thereafter set the shop on fire. As a result, the victim sustained serious burn wounds and later died at the hospital.
The Potchefstroom based Sgt Mabaso and his fire investigation dog, were called to join the investigation team to determine the origins and cause of the fire. Investigations were done and evidence collected from the scene and sent to the laboratory for chemical testing. The evidence was later presented in court and all four accused were found guilty in November 2021, and were each sentenced to life for robbery, arson and murder.
The Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Support Service, Major General (Dr) Ganasen Naidoo applauded Sergeant Mabaso and other team members for their dedication and loyalty they displayed during the investigation process. He said that this is exemplary and part of positive results we get when proper procedures are followed and investigative aids and resources are efficiently utilised during investigation processes.
