Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, resolved to add more dogs to its surveillance team after a passenger travelling from Nairobi was arrested with Ksh347 million worth of heroin.
According to the customs officers at the airport, a two-year-old dog named Jancy helped them seize the 3 kilograms of heroin from the passenger on Saturday, April 22.
The officers narrated how the dog intercepted the passenger and pounced on his bag - giving the officials an indication of the presence of a suspicious object.
Skeptical about the dog's behaviour, the officers requested the Indian to step aside for a detailed frisking and found the harmful substance.
“She immediately put her paw on the man’s luggage raising the suspicion of the officials.
"Immediately the Customs inspector requested the passenger, an Indian national who was coming from Nairobi, to come aside for detailed frisking and purportedly seized approximately three kilograms of Heroin valued at Rs 21 crore(Ksh347 million) from the bag," the officials stated.
Additionally, the dogs would be trained to detect currency notes, tobacco, wildlife, red sandalwood and other prohibited items.
“The non-aggressive nature of the Cocker Spaniel and Labrador breeds of the squad members makes them excellent non-intrusive inspection tools at Delhi airport,” Anees Cherkunnath, Joint Customs Commissioner at the airport stated.
The squad of dogs is subjected to preferential treatment as they rest in air-conditioned kennels after thorough training.
“After completing their duty, they rest in the Air Conditioned kennels near Delhi airport where they are kept under strict supervision.
“Veterinary doctors suggest the meals and do regular check-ups to keep the K9 force active and agile,” the customs officers noted
The department was formed in 2019 by the customs officers to aid in apprehending passengers sneaking illegal items.
