By ALEX PITHUA

A new dawn as police have launched canine department service in Zombo district to boost investigation into criminal activities, a first of its kind.

The sniffer dog and a police personnel handler of dogs were received at Paidha Central police, by Zombo district Police Commander, Superintendent of Police, Denis Kamugisha, and other officials including members of the community who were amazed with the development.

Speaking to our journalist after handover of the canine dog, Inspector of police Benson Awera, a coordinator training police canine unit said the service is free of charge to the community and 24 hours a day.

The Canine unit also deployed two police personnel to manage the unit, constructed a separate spacious building with wash room, food store to accommodate canine dogs and personnel.

Awera appealed to the community members to cooperate with police to use the sniffer dog urging people to avoid contaminating the scene of crimes but report incidents immediately.

“Everything is catered for by the government, we urge the community to always ensure when the crime is committed they should preserve the scene of crime. The means they should not move everywhere and alert the police,” Awere says

Corporal Absolom Muwonge, the veterinary officer at the police canine unit assured that this sniffer dog is properly vaccinated adding that in case of emergency, the district veterinary officer can help otherwise the unit always provide routine treatment of the dogs.

“There is no cause for alarm, our dog is safe and well vaccinated. In case of any emergency the district veterinary officer may intervene to lend a helping hand.” Muwonge observed

Meanwhile DPC Kamugisha has commended police management for deploying the dog in Zombo expressing respect to the dog for its efficiency in tracking criminals.

The department has a fully flagged house, it has housing allowance, perimeter fence, store, and washroom. Kamugisha explained

“I want to allay your fears. We have police personnel and police dogs’ personnel.” Kamugisha added

Beatrice Ubima Tonio, one of the local leaders who attended the handover ceremony, has appealed to police to ensure the sniffer dogs numbers are increased to two in Zombo district.

She commended the police fraternity for considering opening a canine unit in Zombo district.

“I call upon the police to bring another sniffer dog; meanwhile residents of Paidha town and Zombo district can inform leaders for referral to police.” Beatrice added.

For decades, Zombo district police have been relying on canine services from Nebbi district leading to investigations.

Alex Pithua is news editor at zoomer Africa your number one grassroot informations.