Serbian Interior Minister visits Police Brigade, highlights role of service dogs

Serbian Minister of Internal Affairs Ivica Dačić paid a visit to the Police Brigade, an elite unit that utilizes over 60 highly trained service dogs, with more than 40 actively engaged in duty. The visit underscored the significant contributions of these canine units to law enforcement efforts across Serbia.

Dačić's visit was prompted by the recent success of a police dog named Aki. Aki played a vital role in locating the body of a Russian citizen in a challenging, inaccessible terrain within the Vizelj canal. This operation exemplified the dogs' capabilities in search and rescue missions, even in difficult conditions.

The multifaceted roles of police service dogs were emphasized during the visit. These animals are instrumental in detecting narcotics, explosives, and large sums of money. Furthermore, they are trained to prevent physical assaults and terrorist attacks, providing a critical layer of security. The Police Brigade ensures that these highly skilled animals are well cared for throughout their service and beyond, with no plans for their sale after retirement. Notably, one of the most capable and well-trained dogs was adopted from an animal shelter, highlighting the brigade's commitment to animal welfare.

Vladan Kovačević, the guide of the official dog squad within the Police Brigade, stressed that the recent successful search operation was a testament to the long-term, professional work and maximum attention dedicated to training these service dogs. The unit's commitment to excellence ensures its continued value to the Serbian police force.

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This unit cares for the service dogs, there is no sale of them after the end of service, and one of the highest quality and most trained dogs was even adopted from a shelter. It is a highly qualified unit that is very dedicated to its work and of great benefit to our police as a whole.