Chandigarh, Haryana – The Haryana Police have significantly bolstered their crime-fighting capabilities with the expansion of their dog squad, according to an official statement. Under the leadership of Director General of Police (DGP) Shatrujeet Kapur, the squad has grown from 36 to 63 highly trained dogs.

These dogs have played a crucial role in solving 24 cases from January to October 2024, leading to the seizure of significant quantities of narcotics. The seized contraband includes 24.45 kg of marijuana, 17.18 grams of heroin, 42.45 grams of smack, 10.572 kg of poppy husk, and 62 grams of charas.

The Haryana Police utilize three types of dogs, each specializing in a specific area: tracker dogs, explosive detection dogs, and narcotics detection dogs. Tracker dogs, primarily of the Labrador breed, aid in investigations of crimes like theft and murder and are managed by the state crime branch. Explosive detection dogs, also Labradors, are handled by the CID and provide security for VIPs and detect bombs at suspicious locations.

Currently, the dog squad is comprised of 58 dogs deployed across all districts and five with the state Narcotics Control Bureau. The squad features Belgian Shepherds, German Shepherds, and Labradors, all of which receive specialized care and training.

Narcotics dogs are acquired from specialized firms when they are three to six months old and undergo rigorous six-month narcotics training after medical examinations. These dogs retire after approximately 10 to 11 years of service, at which point handlers and assistant handlers have the first option to adopt them. If declined, NGOs or organizations take the dogs.

DGP Kapur emphasized the significance of the dog squad in crime control, highlighting their specialized training programs designed to enhance detection skills and assist in bringing criminals to justice. The squad also demonstrates crime prevention and public safety skills on Republic Day and Independence Day.