Lentswe, Potchefstroom - A passionate K9 handler, Sgt 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 at Westpol Square.
The memorable moment for Mabaso and his dog, began when they assisted in solving a robbery, murder and arson case.
The crimes were committed in 2018, in Tlokweng village, Madikwe. It was reported that four suspects stormed Sunrise shop, then robbed the shop owner of some cash and thereafter set the shop on fire. As a result, the victim sustained serious burn wounds and later died in hospital.
Mabaso and Erin were called to join the investigation team to determine the origins and cause of the fire. Investigation 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.
