In a significant step to strengthen narcotics detection capabilities, Chennai Customs on Monday inducted three young Labradors—Brownie, Cherry, and Super Freak—into its elite K9 unit. The new recruits, all under two years of age, have completed an intensive nine-month training program at the Customs Canine Training Centre in Attari, Punjab.

With their induction, the strength of the Chennai Customs dog squad has now increased to seven. The newly trained canines will be deployed at the Chennai Air Cargo section, where they will assist in detecting narcotic substances smuggled by air passengers or concealed within cargo consignments.

Speaking at the induction ceremony, Chief Commissioner of Chennai Customs ARS Kumar and Principal Commissioner of Chennai Air Customs Ramavath Srinivasa Naik highlighted the unique training that equips these dogs to identify contraband in a non-invasive manner. “These canines are trained to remain calm and composed during inspections. They neither bark nor exhibit aggression while detecting narcotics. This allows for discreet and efficient screening of baggage and cargo,” they said.

The addition of Brownie, Cherry, and Super Freak is expected to bolster Customs’ vigilance and deterrence capabilities at Chennai airport, which is a crucial node in international cargo and passenger transit. The deployment of the K9 unit forms part of broader efforts by the Customs Department to modernize its enforcement strategies and enhance border control mechanisms.

Officials added that regular training and assessment are integral to keeping the dogs sharp and responsive to evolving smuggling techniques. With their acute sense of smell and trained discipline, the canine unit remains one of the most reliable tools in the department’s anti-narcotics arsenal.

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