OSCE Programme Office concludes canine training course on explosives detection in Kazakhstan | WPN World People News

The OSCE-supported two-stage Canine Explosive Search Training Programme co-organized by the Austrian Ministry of Internal Affairs, the OSCE Programme Office in Astana and the US Embassy in Kazakhstan concluded on 27 September in Astana.

The event aimed to help enhance the capacity of Kazakhstan’s law enforcement agencies to effectively use dogs in countering transnational threats to the country’s security. The first stage of the training programme took place at the premises of the Canine Centre of the Austrian Ministry of Interior from 18 June to 12 August and the second stage took place from 5 to 27 September in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Six canine specialists from the Ministry of Internal Affairs, the National Guard and the State Protection Service received training conducted by the Head of the Canine Centre at Austria’s Ministry of Internal Affairs. They were trained using advanced techniques and methods for service dogs through hands-on training using positive reinforcement on detection of explosives and their components. Participants and their animal companions were trained on theoretical foundations in dog training, groundwork in searching and passive indicating behaviour.

“In the service of law enforcement agencies, dogs proved their effectiveness in preventing various criminal acts,” said Ambassador György Szabó, Head of the OSCE Programme Office in Astana. “They have also proved their unique abilities to serve law enforcement agencies in preventing a variety of crimes, in particular those of a transnational nature. Since sharpening the service dogs’ skills requires significant time and effort, applying best international practices in canine training can hopefully make the process more efficient.”

Ambassador George A. Krol, Ambassador of the United States of America to the Republic of Kazakhstan said: “In our day-to-day activities, we do not always notice the valuable work conducted by canine specialists, for instance checking stadiums before soccer matches, concert halls, and other large public events like the upcoming EXPO 2017. The work implemented by the canine specialists and their four-legged co-workers prevent serious crimes related to narcotics and weapon smuggling on the border and inside the country, and terrorist acts.”

The course is a follow-up to a similar training event held in October 2014 and August 2015 as part of the Office’s multi-year activities aimed at enhancing Kazakhstan’s capacity to counter transnational organized crime and terrorism.

source: Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe