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Mosly, Explosive Detection Dog for Colombian Army, Dies After Lightning Strike in Antioquia
🇨🇴 Colombia

Mosly, Explosive Detection Dog for Colombian Army, Dies After Lightning Strike in Antioquia

From El Tiempo · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • Mosly, a Belgian Malinois dog serving with the Colombian National Army, died after being struck by lightning in Briceño, Antioquia.
  • The specialized explosive detection dog had served for two years, helping to neutralize explosive devices planted by armed groups in the region.
  • Mosly's handler, soldier José Portocarrero Olaya, shared a strong bond with the canine, and together they were credited with locating six explosive devices.

A highly trained explosive detection dog named Mosly, who served bravely with the Colombian National Army, has died tragically after being struck by lightning in Briceño, Antioquia.

Mosly, a Belgian Malinois, spent two of her three years of life serving with the 4th Brigade's Campaign Artillery Battalion. In this role, she was instrumental in combating organized armed groups that operate in Antioquia, a region where these groups frequently use explosive devices to control territory and deter authorities.

The specialized explosives and demining team, of which Mosly was a vital part, acts as a crucial countermeasure against the deadly traps laid by subversive groups. Her exceptional olfactory skills, discipline, and courage were essential in this dangerous work.

Mosly and her companion, professional soldier José Portocarrero Olaya.

— Ejército NacionalCaption identifying Mosly and her handler.

Over the past eight months, Mosly worked closely with professional soldier José Portocarrero Olaya. Those familiar with the pair noted a deep bond built on trust, discipline, and teamwork, which significantly contributed to neutralizing criminal actions by armed groups. They were particularly deployed in Briceño, an area experiencing heightened activity from FARC dissident factions and intense clashes between groups vying for control.

During her service, Mosly successfully located six explosive devices in Briceño, directly contributing to the safety of soldiers and the local community. Her death marks a significant loss to the unit and the ongoing efforts to restore public order in the region.

Mosly and her companion deployed in Briceño.

— Ejército NacionalCaption showing Mosly and her handler during deployment.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Tiempo in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.