Rwanda National Police

The Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIGP) in charge of Administration and Personnel, Juvenal Marizamunda, on Friday presided over the pass out of 20 canine dog handlers and eight trainers.

The pass-out was held at the Canine Brigade headquarters in Masoro, Gasabo District.

The one-month training focused on basic explosive and narcotic detection and kennel management. It was conducted in partnership with the Police Dog Center of Holland.

DIGP Marizamunda thanked the course participants, the facilitators and the Canine brigade for the successful completion of the training.

He commended the canine specialists for the important role they play in supplementing national safety and security.

“We all know that the primary responsibility of the Police and other security organs is to make sure that there is peace and security in the country as they are the pre-condition for sustainable development. You play a significant role in ensuring that security,” DIGP Marizamunda said.

He, however, reminded participants that the criminal landscape is becoming more complex and challenging, especially with criminals taking advantage of advancement of technology.

“Criminals are dynamic, they are now using technology; capacity building must be the priority to ensure we always stay many steps ahead of criminals. The course you end today fits well in that objective,” he added.

He emphasized that Rwanda National Police (RNP) will continue to invest in capacity building, acquire more dogs and expand areas of specialization such as apprehension and attack dogs.

RNP, he further said, will continue to upgrade Canine Brigade infrastructure including training facilities and developing a dog breeding center.

Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Benoit Kayijuka, Canine Brigade Commanding Officer said that the training was designed to equip police officers with the required standard skills and knowledge for effective use of dogs while searching.

“RNP is strengthening the Canine capabilities. These officers completing training today have been taught the maintenance of gear and kennel, handler safety, canine health and welfare, search techniques, among others. The acquired knowledge will help us in our daily duties,” ACP Kayijuka said.

Andres Isaksson, the chief trainer from the Police Dogs Centre Holland commended the discipline, commitment and energy displayed by the trainees.

“Dogs have the ability to perform better, under the supervision of more experienced handlers,” Andres noted.

Police Constable (PC) Nadine Ingabire, one of the course participants said that she learned many things and she is committed to use the knowledge acquired.

“Before coming here I did not know that dogs obey and respect orders given. My dog searches for explosives and it is interesting to work with it. I am now familiar with it, we form a team and we are ready to work for our country,” PC Ingabire said.

K-9 means a dog that is specifically trained to assist Police and other law enforcement personnel in, for example, searching for drugs and explosives, locating missing people, finding crime scene evidence, and protecting their handlers.