Al-Amn Magazine

SECURITY consists of several key stages. “The relationship building stage begins with a specialized course to create a strong bond between the trainer and the dog, enhancing their ability to work harmoniously and easily in the field. “The compatibility testing stage has joint tests for the trainer and dog to ensure their personalities are compatible and suitable, a crucial element given the nature of the work while during the specialization stage, both the trainer and the dog undergo specialized training according to the specific area of work, whether it be explosives or narcotics detection. “The intensive field training stage includes training on various types of inspections such as inspecting cars, goods, ships, and travelers’ personal belongings, as well as searching open areas for prohibited materials, while in the field readiness stage, the dog is qualified and prepared to participate in inspection operations.” He said daily training exercises are conducted with the trainer at various customs entry points to ensure the dog remains at the highest level of readiness for any mission. Continuous readiness He said the training courses are a fundamental pillar for ensuring the unit’s ability to perform its security tasks efficiently and effectively. “Through continuous and high-quality training, unit members and the dogs tasked with detecting prohibited materials are qualified to ensure complete readiness in various circumstances. “This includes training on basic tasks, in addition to specialized courses that keep pace with security developments, which enhances their capabilities and contributes to raising the level of performance sustainably. Members of the Canine Unit undergo a number of training courses, starting with the foundational course for dogs newly joining the unit, followed by several refresher courses to ensure efficiency and effectiveness.” He said the unit also organizes specialized training courses in drug and explosives detection, in coordination and cooperation with the Special Security Forces. Detection of prohibited substances He said that the dogs in the Canine Unit possess a superior ability to detect prohibited substances, such as money and narcotics including hashish, Lyrica, Captagon, marijuana, crystal meth, and synthetic cannabis. “The dogs’ health is regularly assessed through routine visits to the veterinary clinic to ensure their well-being and readiness for duty. The dogs’ behavior is continuously evaluated by their trainer and training supervisor to guarantee their optimal performance of their assigned tasks.” He said the dogs also undergo regular monitoring and evaluation. Supporting means He pointed out that in order to enhance the effectiveness of inspection operations and the seizure of prohibited materials, the Customs