At NoJack Operations, vehicle tracking has never been only about stolen vehicles, recovery operations, or patrol work.
Behind every radio transmission, every emergency response, every late-night patrol, and every flashing light on the road, there are real people placing themselves in dangerous situations to help complete strangers.
One of those people is Frederick Koen.
Beyond the Job Title
Frederick is far more than an A-Grade PSIRA registered officer. Over the years he has earned qualifications in multiple specialist fields including DH5 K9 handling, SASETA Vehicle Forensics, VERIDOT certification, and numerous operational response disciplines. Yet despite all of these achievements, the qualification closest to his heart has always been his HPCSA BLS Medic certification obtained through ER24 many years ago.
Helping people has never been a job title — it is part of who he is.
Whether responding to roadside emergencies, assisting accident victims, helping distressed families, rescuing animals trapped in storm drains, or stopping traffic to protect injured people on busy highways, Frederick has consistently gone beyond what is expected. Many of these actions happen quietly, without cameras, publicity, or recognition. Often at his own expense, and frequently supported by NoJack Operations itself, he answers calls that many others would drive past.
A Mindset Shared Across South Africa
This same mindset exists among many first responders, medics, security personnel, recovery teams, K9 handlers, law enforcement officers, and emergency volunteers across South Africa — ordinary people making extraordinary sacrifices daily to protect complete strangers.
Unfortunately, those who serve are not immune to danger themselves.
When the Call Came In
During severe rainy conditions on a cold August morning on the East Rand, multiple serious accidents were being reported across the region while emergency services were already stretched thin. While on his way to work, Frederick received a radio communication requesting urgent assistance at a nearby motor vehicle accident scene.
Without hesitation, he confirmed his response.
What happened next unfolded in seconds.
While travelling with emergency lights and sirens activated, a motorist in a white bakkie reportedly turned directly into the path of Frederick's emergency vehicle after becoming impatient in traffic. In an attempt to avoid a catastrophic collision, Frederick swerved sharply. His Audi Q5 mounted a high pavement before violently impacting a tree on the driver's side.
The impact was devastating.
After the Impact
The collision destroyed the vehicle's suspension and wheels before trapping Frederick inside the wreckage. His K9 partner, Kyra, who was secured in a protective sling in the rear of the vehicle, thankfully avoided major injury.
Emergency rescue personnel worked urgently to cut Frederick free from the vehicle. He was transported by ER24 to Glynnwood Hospital while Kyra was rushed for veterinary care.
Medical assessments later confirmed that Frederick sustained a severe double fracture to his left arm, requiring emergency reconstructive surgery involving the insertion of two metal plates. His recovery journey will be long, painful, and demanding.
This incident serves as a harsh reminder of the dangers faced daily by emergency responders and operational personnel throughout South Africa.
A Reminder for Every Motorist
At NoJack Operations, we ask motorists to remember something critically important:
When you hear sirens or see emergency lights, do not panic, ignore them, or blindly continue driving. Check your mirrors. Slow down. Look around you. Create space safely and responsibly.
That emergency vehicle may be carrying someone racing to save a life — possibly even someone you love.
Every day, first responders, medics, K9 units, security teams, recovery personnel, and emergency operators place themselves directly in harm's way for the safety of others. The least we can do as road users is help them get home safely to their families at the end of their shift.
Gratitude
The NoJack Operations family would also like to extend sincere appreciation to every emergency responder, medical team member, rescue worker, law enforcement officer, and member of the public who assisted Frederick and supported him following the incident.
Your dedication, courage, and selfless service do not go unnoticed.
Author
NoJack Operations
Reporting from the NoJack command desk.
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