21st batch of AP police dog squad passes out

Vijayawada: The 21st batch of AP Dog Squad of state police graduated on Tuesday after completing its eight months’ course at the Canine Training Centre of the 6th Battalion Intelligence Security Wing, Mangalagiri.

Speaking as chief guest on the occasion, home minister Taneti Vanitha said it is gratifying to see canines completing their training and joining duty in crime investigation, bomb squad, countering terrorist activities and ensuring safety of a location.

The graduating canines presented an impressive show for everyone by detecting bombs, thwarting attackers of VIPs and apprehending criminals. Those who graduated included German Shepherds, English Cocker Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Labradors and Belgian Malinois.

Minister Vanitha lauded the efforts of police officers who dedicate themselves to the service of the community by transforming an ordinary dog into a member of the police department. She congratulated the 35 Jagilas and 54 dog handlers who will be operating with the 21st batch of canines.

The minister said for the first time, 10 canines have been trained for identifying dangerous narcotic substances. A team of dogs will also identify red sanders and assault attackers.

She said 154 dogs already trained have performed their duties effectively in police stations, Octopus, Greyhounds, crime investigation department, VVIP security duties, TTD Brahmotsavams, Devi Navaratri celebrations, President, Prime Minister and Governor visits.

Principal secretary (Home) Harish Kumar Gupta, DGP (Intelligence) P.S.R. Anjaneyulu, DGP (Fire Services) P.V. Sunil Kumar, APSP additional DGP Atul Singh, IGP SIB Vineet Brijlal, DIG (Intelligence) K. Raghuram Reddy, APSP DIGs Rajakumari and Venkateswarlu, Special Security Group SP A. Bapuji, ACB SP Adnan Asmi and SIB SP Sumit Sunil Garg were among those present.

The event was open to school children.