JCF's Canine Division gets 3 vehicles

National Security Minister Robert Montague on Wednesday handed over three Toyota Hilux pickups to head of the Canine Division of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, Superintendent Dalton Wright.

Montague was also given a tour of the kennels, where he saw two of the 12 dogs imported from Colombia, who will assist in the detection of narcotics, firearms, explosives, as well as search-and-rescue operations.

The other 10 dogs from Colombia have not yet been released from quarantine.

Another seven dogs are expected to arrive from Florida early in the New Year.

Tremendous assistance

Wright thanked the minister for the vehicles, noting that they will assist tremendously in helping the members of staff to carry out their functions.

He said the reliability of the vehicles will go a far way in helping the division achieve its objectives.

One of the vehicles will be assigned to the western end of the island where it will serve the export sector, and assist in the cruise ship industry.

During the tour, Montague also viewed refurbishing and expansion work on the kennels, which will move the capacity from 70 to 105.

The work is being done at a cost of J$11.7 million and is expected to be completed in 2018. The Canine Division has more than 50 dogs that specialise in detecting narcotics, firearms, and ammunition.

There are also four cadaver dogs for locating human remains, as well as doing search-and-rescue operations for persons who may be lost. Ten of the dogs are assigned to Montego Bay.