Gambia Police Force Enhance Crime-Fighting Capabilities with Trained Canine Unit

By Haddy Jarju

The Gambia Police Force advances its modernisation efforts by launching a specialised K-9 unit, poised to strengthen crime-fighting capabilities and uphold public safety. Based at the PIU headquarters in Kanifing, these expertly trained canines will collaborate with officers to combat crime and safeguard communities nationwide.

At the handover ceremony, Commissioner of Police Adeline Basangeh expressed gratitude to IGP Sanyang for his forward-thinking approach in modernising the police force. The introduction of these dogs is expected to greatly enhance the unit’s operational effectiveness. The dogs, which have completed their initial training with their handlers, were acquired from Spain.

PASP Gambia coordinator, Mr. John Sock, emphasised their versatility, noting their ability to perform tasks such as protecting their handlers, apprehending suspects, and detecting prohibited substances.

To ensure the well-being of the dogs, appropriate shelters have been provided to facilitate their adaptation to their new environment and prevent any potential health risks. Additionally, the inclusion of a female dog in the unit aims to support breeding efforts within the country, reducing the need for importing dogs in the future.

CP Mustapha Ndong, representing the IGP, underscored the importance of the K-9 unit in the ongoing security sector reforms, stressing its role in prioritising the safety of the Gambian population.

These highly trained K-9 dogs will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including detecting drugs and explosives, locating missing persons, collecting evidence at crime scenes, protecting officers and civilians, and apprehending fleeing suspects. Among them are dogs named Omad, Ayo, Katchy, Nasim, Mande, and Lamdo.