The Ekurhuleni SAPS Mounted Unit was established in 2001 and is comprised of 23 members and 10 horses.
“The role of the mounted unit is to provide visible policing in areas which cannot be accessed by vehicles, tracing of stolen livestock, policing stadiums at major events, searching for missing persons in open spaces and patrolling in rural and informal settlements,” explained Rapid Response Services spokesperson Capt Pinky Tsinyane.
“The unit was formed because of its high visibility and mobility. Therefore, they are highly recommended for patrol on a daily basis.
“The unit tackles all types of crime.
“Among the crimes that are attended to are theft of motor vehicles, house break-in, robbery, theft general and most trio crimes.
“Horses and members of the unit are very important to the SAPS.
“That is why they both have to be trained and certified.
“The horses have to be trained and acclimatised to domestic life.
“They are then assessed and a permit is issued for their use in patrols.
“The assessment includes being familiarised with various types of noise, such as hooting, shouting and so on.”
Tsinyane urged the community to be vigilant.
“Community members are encouraged to know and understand their surroundings.
“Any suspicious people, vehicles or activity that the public is not familiar with should be reported to the police.
“Like any member of the SAPS, members of the mounted unit can be approached to assist whenever help is needed.”
