In Lagos, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) held a refresher training course for its canine unit handlers, bringing in German technical experts from the Bundeskriminalamt (BKA) to sharpen the skills of both dogs and their handlers in narcotics detection.
The two-day workshop, conducted by Mr. Andreas Roscher and Ms. Jacqueline Shüler, covered advanced obedience, scent‑imprinting techniques, and search patterns. Participants also carried out real‑life simulation exercises at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA) baggage hall, APM Terminals Apapa, and the MMIA NAHCO export shed. The training also addressed handler safety and tactics for deploying canine assets in high‑risk areas.
Eleven personnel from the Canine Unit took part, including the unit commander, two veterinary doctors and eight handlers with their service dogs. Five officers from other Lagos commands who expressed interest in joining the unit also attended.
“Our canine teams remain one of the most potent assets in our detection and interdiction efforts,” said NDLEA Chairman and CEO Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd). “This partnership with our German counterparts further strengthens that capacity and aligns our operations with global best practices.”
Marwa added that the agency has noted the manpower and logistics challenges facing the Canine Unit, such as the need for more service dogs, additional personnel and boarding facilities to cover seaports, international airports and land borders. He said plans are underway to address these gaps and that the refresher training will be sustained as an annual exercise.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
