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[news] South African Police Dogs Get Bullet-Proof Vests
JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - Life in the South African police is so dangerous that even the force's dogs need protection, say public donors who kitted out six canine stalwarts in bullet proof vests Tuesday.
The dogs, from the North East Rand dog unit, were the latest of South Africa's frontline canines to be dressed in the two kilogram (4.4 pound) jackets, tough enough to turn knives and stop small arms rounds.
Police in KwaZulu Natal province acquired the canine jackets after two dogs were stabbed trying to catch a thief.
"We expect the dogs to do the dangerous work. They are the first in line," said Captain Cobus Noeth.
"For years we have had the privilege of having bullet proof vests, and now we are able to give the dogs the same kind of protection that the handlers have," he added.
The 2,500 rand ($264) jackets were donated by school children, a scout group, and local businesses.
South Africa's high levels of violent crime make life dangerous for police officers, let alone their dogs who are frequently shot, stabbed, or beaten by the criminals they are chasing.
More than 160 officers were killed in the year to September 2001, while more than 800 officers were attacked while on duty.
Of more than 1,000 police dogs, 21 were injured in 2001.
source: yahoo! news
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11-30-2002 05:51 PM
