SAPS mourns K9 Sky after severe injuries

The South African Police Service (SAPS) is mourning the death of Sky, a police K9 who was euthanised after sustaining severe injuries.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, SAPS said the decision to euthanise Sky was taken on humane grounds after her injuries became unbearable.

“Today, we mourn not only the loss of a K9, but the loss of a valued member of the SAPS family,” the police service said.

SAPS described its K9s as courageous and loyal members of the organisation who work alongside police officers to protect communities and assist in investigations.

“Sky will be deeply missed by those who cared for her, worked with her and formed a bond with her,” SAPS said.

The police service also acknowledged the emotional impact of Sky’s death on her handlers and the wider SAPS K9 community.

The circumstances surrounding Sky’s injuries remain under investigation.

SAPS said an internal investigation is continuing and that the process would be allowed to take its course.

The death follows the appointment of a senior officer by Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane to investigate the circumstances surrounding Sky’s injuries at the SAPS Training and Veterinary Facility.