A number of puzzled Umhlanga residents contacted The Ridge on Thursday night reporting that helicopters were buzzing over Umhlanga and the Gateway/New Town area.
Umhlanga resident Robyn Hulley called to say the aircraft must have been police helicopters as they were repeatedly patrolling up and down the area. Had it been a medical emergency they would have fairly quickly found their intended target.
Did you hear or see the hectic helicopter activity over Umhlanga on Thursday night?
Picture gallery: Helicopter flip
Police spokesman Col Jay Naicker has confirmed that police and the SA Air Force were conducting joint operations in Pinetown on Thursday and again on Thursday night over Umhlanga. These were to get systems in place and gear up for the festive season. “Residents will see more of this type of activity as helicopters with spotlights patrol the area to keep criminal activity down to a minimum.”