Six police dogs and their handlers were celebrated in a ceremony held yesterday, marking the successful completion of their training program. This event highlighted the enduring partnership between Fiji and New Zealand, aimed at enhancing frontline policing and promoting community safety.

During the ceremony, New Zealand High Commissioner Charlotte Darlow commended the progress made within the program. She noted, “Looking at the dogs and handlers today, I can see the enormous amount of progress that has been achieved. This partnership between humans and dogs results in safer communities at the front line.”

Ms. Darlow underscored the significance of developing local training capacities, stating that it is impressive to witness Fiji building its own capabilities rather than relying solely on external resources.

Acting Commissioner of Police Juki Fong Chew emphasized the vital contributions that police dogs make to law enforcement. He remarked, “With normal human abilities, we cannot detect certain things. These dogs have proven essential in identifying drugs and other hidden items during operations.” He also expressed gratitude for the support the New Zealand government has provided in training officers and supplying resources.

The program has now advanced to include locally trained canine handlers and assessors, marking a significant step towards operational independence for Fiji’s police force.

This initiative not only boosts local law enforcement but also fosters self-sufficiency and enhances the safety of communities in Fiji. Such partnerships and programs can lead to a brighter future where reliance on external resources diminishes, ultimately strengthening national security and community trust in law enforcement.

In summary, the ceremony celebrated the achievements of police dogs and their handlers while reinforcing the importance of developing local capabilities, thus enhancing law enforcement efforts in Fiji.