Since July this year, Virus, the Metro Police K9 has been making massive strides in the fight against drugs. The four-legged crime fighter has helped detect illicit substances and drug paraphernalia valued at R136 739 in Ward 57 alone.
The ward includes Woodstock, District Six, Mowbray, Observatory, and Salt River.
In a latest incident in Salt River on Saturday 4 October, Metro Police Officers recovered drugs with an estimated street value of just under R30 000.
Ruth Solomons, metro police spokesperson, said officers on patrol noticed a white Ford Fiesta parked in an awkward manner next to a fire hydrant.
“The Officers approached the driver and while speaking to him, noticed that he seemed nervous. Officers requested permission to conduct a search and brought in Virus who led his handler to the steering column where they recovered more than 100 packets of cocaine, 10 packets of crack cocaine and a packet of tik.”
She said a 41-year-old male driver was arrested for possession of drugs.
According to Solomons, a similar operation led by Virus in August led to the discovery of drugs under the steering column of a vehicle in Observatory. Drugs valued at over R13 000 were hidden in a pink sock.
Yusuf Mohamed, Ward 57 councillor, praised Virus for its “heroic work”.
“Virus has become somewhat of a local hero, our friendly neighbourhood Metro Police K9 has taken illicit drugs and paraphernalia to the value of R136 739 since July. Hard drugs like Cocaine, Khat, Crack Cocaine and Tik taken completely out of circulation by our Metro Police officer with Four Paws,” he said.
He warned criminals that drugs will not be tolerated and that law enforcement will continue to crack down on illegal activities.
JP Smith, Mayco member for safety and security, said in a press statement: “K9 Virus is such a good boy, although I doubt these criminals would agree. These latest successes are timely reminders of the value that specialised units such as the K9 Unit within Metro Police bring to our enforcement efforts, particularly the very rampant drug trade.”
Smith urged residents to play their part and to report any suspicious activity.
Tip offs about drug dealing and other illicit activities can be reported to the Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) on 021 480 7700 or via the Anonymous tip-off line, 24-hours a day, on 0800 110077.
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