Beloved pet killed by CAP security guard
BRYANSTON - A beloved pet dog of a resident in Bryanston was shot and killed by a Community Active Protection (CAP) reaction officer on the evening of 24 July while investigating an open gate on the property.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2015/07/11780496_1015287140_10274.jpg)
Steven Dover, the owner of the dog named Deja said, “I am completely heartbroken over what has happened. Deja was a lovely animal whose nature was passive and loving. She reacted as any dog would do in an attempt to protect her family.”
According to the CEO of CAP, Mark van Jaarsveld, two tactical officers noticed an open driveway gate at the client’s home. The officers said they rang the bell and the homeowner, Dover’s mother, came out to speak to them. In an attempt to close the gate, the homeowner went back inside and it is then alleged by the officers that they were approached by the homeowner’s four pitbull terriers.
One of the dogs allegedly attacked one of the tactical officers who said he exhausted all possible options to stop the attack, including several desperate pleas to the homeowner. As a last resort he discharged his firearm in an attempt to save his life.
![The Dover's beloved pet Deja and Steven Dover in an embrace.](https://northeasterntribune.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/8/2015/07/1620353_10151998154_29992-520x390.jpg)
Van Jaarsveld said one of the dogs was shot and later died. The officer was hospitalised and was being treated for multiple puncture wounds and lacerations.
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Van Jaarsveld said, “We extend our greatest sympathy to the owners of the dog. We also wish a speedy recovery and strength to the tactical officer and his family, who together with all CAP tactical officers put their lives on the line daily to ensure a safer community for us all.”
Van Jaarsveld added that CAP would be appointing an independent third party to investigate and verify all of the facts leading up to, and surrounding the incident.
Dover said, “I feel that this should not have happened and the fact that Deja is being highlighted as a pitbull is unacceptable. Most types of dogs would’ve reacted this way, Labradors to dachshunds. I raised her from a puppy and she was loved by all, my family, my domestic worker and her children and all of my friends.”
“There are many questions I have for CAP and why this happened under the many circumstances,” added Dover.
What precautions do you think that security companies can develop in order to prevent another incident like this from happening?
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