Rwanda National Police

Nineteen Rwanda National Police (RNP) dog handlers, on Thursday, June 30, completed a two-month canine course on 'bonding and familiarisation for narcotics, explosive detector and vapor wake.'

Twelve dogs were also taken through the same scientific training conducted in partnership with the Police Dog Center Holland. It is part of the RNP deliberate efforts to build the capacity of its K-9 brigade and to have more specialized sniffers.

Vapor wake, for example, is one of the new canine discipline that the force has adopted. It is a scientifically-based method for selecting, training, and employing dogs for the detection of hand-carried and body-worn hazardous materials such as person-borne improvised explosive devices.

Vapor wake dogs are trained to follow the scent, or vapor, odor of explosives on a moving target contrary to explosive detector, which sniffs static explosives.

Commissioner of Police (CP) Bruce Munyambo, while officially closing the course at the Canine brigade headquarters in Masoro, Gasabo District, recognized the impact K-9 specialists play in safeguarding Rwanda's safety and security.

"The primary roles of the Police and other security organs is to make sure that there is peace and security in the country as preconditions for sustainable development," CP Munyambo said.

The global security threats, he added, have become more complex and challenging with criminals taking advantage of technological advancements.

"In its strategic plan 2018-2023, RNP made capacity building one of its key priorities to ensure we always stay many steps ahead of criminals. This course comes as response and fits well in that plan to continue to improve the skills of K-9 staff and expand their know-how," CP Munyambo said.

He reiterated that RNP will continue to invest in capacity development, acquisition of more dogs and to specialise in more canine areas.

Reacting to the displayed course demonstrations, CP Munyambo observed that the the intended objectives were achieved but challenged the new dog handlers to put to good use the acquired knowledge and skills to ensure the safety and security of residents of Rwanda.