The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed the death of police patrol dog Floppy, who went missing during an armed robbery investigation and police operation in Mdantsane, Eastern Cape.
Floppy’s body was recovered at approximately 13:00 on Monday, 15 June 2026, during an extensive search operation conducted by Search and Rescue teams in dense bush in NU16, Mdantsane.
According to SAPS Eastern Cape, the patrol dog had sustained gunshot wounds.
Floppy went missing while tracking robbery suspects
The K9 officer was deployed on Friday, 12 June 2026, following an armed robbery at Nzuzo Primary School in Zwelitsha.
Police said three suspects allegedly stole 20 laptops, 15 cellphones and the headmaster’s vehicle before fleeing into nearby bushland.
During the pursuit, Floppy was released to track and apprehend the suspects after they ran into dense vegetation.
Moments later, gunshots were heard from inside the bush.
Despite extensive air and ground search efforts, the dog could not be located at the time.
Search operation leads to discovery
A multi-day search operation continued until Floppy’s body was discovered on Monday afternoon.
The discovery brought a tragic end to efforts to locate the police dog, who had been assisting officers in tracking the suspects.
Suspects still at large
The three robbery suspects remain on the run and are considered armed and dangerous.
SAPS has urged anyone with information that could assist in locating the suspects to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or report information to their nearest police station.
Tribute to a fallen K9 officer
Floppy died while carrying out his duties in service of South Africa.
The patrol dog played a critical role in supporting police operations and tracking dangerous suspects.
Our thoughts are with his handler, fellow SAPS members and everyone involved in the search efforts.
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