Explosives detector dog team deployed overseas

Senior Constable Ross Clarke and explosives detector dog (EDD) Jazz have recently returned from Samoa having assisted with security at the Pacific Islands Forum in Apia from 5-7 August.

“ Samoa has no trained explosives detector dogs and Jazz quickly became a local celebrity,” says Ross.

For two weeks Ross and Jazz joined the Samoan Police Search Team which was responsible for searching venues before forum delegates used them. With the exception of Ross and Jazz, the search team comprised local police who were trained especially for the forum by the Australian Federal Police.
“ They appreciated the experience we brought along with the capability of Jazz, who fortunately didn’t find anything suspicious.

“ The hardest part was working in 30-degree heat every day. But with plenty of water, shade and down time Jazz came home in good condition. It was a great experience.”

Jazz has been operating as an EDD for two-and-a-half years. Ross has 24 years’ experience with the Dog Section. The team was judged the top explosives detector dog team at the National Police Dog Trials in June.
The Pacific Islands Forum is the key political organisation in the Pacific. It brings together annually the 16 heads of government of the independent and self-governing Pacific nations.

Assistant Commissioner Jon White, who arranged for the assistance from Ross and Jazz, says New Zealand Police receive requests from Pacific Island countries from time to time and look to help out where possible. “We were pleased to play a part in ensuring a safe and successful Pacific Islands Forum meeting in Apia, and Ross and Jazz enhanced the standing of New Zealand Police in a high-profile setting.”