The local Santa Cruz Police are set to undergo training, for the first time, in the detection of human remains with the assistance of canine handlers. This specific new course, as reported by DIARIO DE AVISOS last September, is aimed at members of police divisions that specialise in canine operations and has been coordinated by the Local Security Academy. The training is scheduled to occur at the former Unipol headquarters in the capital from December 9 to 13, with 14 registered officers participating.
The instructor is a prominent figure from the National Police, possessing extensive theoretical and practical expertise in the search for human remains using specially trained dogs in this intricate police field. Collaboration with the Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences is crucial for this course, and additionally, three canine units from the General Corps of the Canarian Police will participate as guests.
Mayor José Manuel Bermúdez (CC) stated yesterday that, “through initiatives like this, we aim to update and enhance the knowledge of agents in such a sensitive area as the search for human remains through the Canine Unit.” He added, “This will be the first of several courses intended to support the local Police in strengthening their ability to handle the various issues they confront on a daily basis.”
The Security Councillor, Gladis de León, emphasised “the remarkably high standard of this training programme. We are witnessing a significant milestone for those involved or aspiring to be part of our Canine Unit. It is worth noting the reputation that our local Police hold in these matters and their ongoing collaborative efforts with other police forces in detection operations.”
Specialties
The nationalist councillor expressed gratitude for “the engagement of all individuals and institutions that have contributed to enabling us to deliver, for the first time, a course on this sophisticated canine detection work, which is now being added to our catalogue of specialties, such as the detection of narcotic substances, firearms, legal tender, or defence currency.”
As for the course objectives, it is expected that by its conclusion, there will be pairs of guide-dogs and handlers trained in the search and identification of human remains across diverse scenarios. The curriculum will encompass learning training techniques for this purpose, determining work in search areas whether in open environments, confined spaces, or disaster-stricken locations, as well as applying forensic methodologies for odour discrimination and identifying findings. Searches will be conducted in both simulated and real-life situations.
A significant portion of the training will also focus on understanding current legislation related to this matter, alongside ensuring adherence to legal and ethical standards in this field.
