The Metro Police dog, Virus, is making a name for himself. The City says the K9 was instrumental in two crime prevention success stories in just a few weeks. In the latest bust, the four-legged dog officer was called in to search a suspect vehicle in Observatory.

Alderman Smith says, “K9 Virus is such a good boy, although I doubt these criminals would agree.”

The Metro Police dog, Virus, is making a name for himself

The Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, stated that on Friday, 15 August 2025, officers, busy with crime prevention patrols, noticed a vehicle parked in a manner that caused an obstruction. He says that after asking the driver for his license, they called in the dog cop to do his thing.

“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,” added Smith.

Dog cop on the beat

Officers, subsequently, at the bottom of the steering column, discovered 29 packets of khat, 13 bankies of rock cocaine and two bankies of cocaine, hidden in a pink sock. The drugs have an estimated street value of R13 200. Smith says a 41-year-old man was arrested in connection with the illegal possession of drugs. The suspect was detained at Woodstock SAPS.

Virus was also instrumental in another drug bust in Woodstock on 23 July. The canine sniffed out cocaine and crack cocaine to the value of just over R40 000. He also found cash.

Notices for various transgressions

In the past week, Law Enforcement officers arrested 178 suspects and issued 6,458 notices for various transgressions.
Traffic officers recorded 50,809 offences.
Officers impounded 263 public transport vehicles.
Law enforcement agents executed 1,749 warrants of arrest.

Smith says, additionally, 29 suspected drunk drivers were arrested. Eight others were taken into custody for reckless and negligent driving, as well as for other offences.

Tip-offs are encouraged

Citizens are encouraged to give tip-offs about drug dealing and other illicit activities. It can be reported to the Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) on 021 480 7700. There is also an Anonymous tip-off line, 24 hours a day, on 0800 110077.

He said, “I also want to remind communities that they can help too, by sending tip-offs about drug dealing to our anonymous tip-off line, or to officers on patrol in their areas.”