Crime Solving with Trained Canines

Trained dogs, known as K9 units, have become invaluable in a range of criminal investigations worldwide, acting as powerful allies to law enforcement agencies. Their keen senses and loyalty have earned them a central role in investigations across diverse areas. Dogs have been integral to policing since ancient times, initially serving as guardians, hunters, and occasional trackers. In Europe, early law enforcers used dogs to locate suspects and stolen goods—a practice that has evolved into today’s essential K9 units.

K9 units are becoming essential in high-profile cases. In the 2018 Kathua rape case, dogs traced the accused’s movements, leading to convictions. In a 2020 Uttar Pradesh gang rape, dogs tracked suspects, enabling swift arrests. Police forces across regions, like in Madhya Pradesh, use K9s effectively, with one unit tracking a suspect over 12 km. Recently, Gujarat registered its first prohibition case using an alcohol-detecting Labrador Tamri of 18 months old. Canine evidence, especially when paired with DNA and witness testimony, is valuable and accepted in Indian courts.

Several court cases have shaped the legal standing of canine evidence. In Shri Ashok Gavade v. State of Goa (1993), the court stressed the importance of proper documentation of the dog's tracking process and consistency in evidence. In Pandian Kanappan Nadar v. State of Maharashtra (1993), the court accepted tracking dog evidence after a dog identified the accused by sniffing a slipper and knife at the crime scene. The Supreme Court, in Gade Lakshmi Mangraju v. State of A.P. (2001), highlighted inherent weaknesses in sniffer dog evidence, while Dinesh Borthakur v. State of Assam (2008) deemed it hearsay and unsuitable as primary evidence.

Col. Chug, the Founder and Former Head of the Police K9 Cell at the Ministry of Home Affairs Government of India has worked extensively with the K9 Force, leveraging their skills in diverse cases. Dr. Keshav Kumar himself, in his service times, used K9 units to solve many cases. In 1991, a Dog Squad traced stone pelters during the Nadiad riots, leading to key arrests. In 1999, dogs helped seize five kg of smuggled RDX in Kutch, breaking up a cross-border gang. In 2013, a CBI sniffer dog detected poached tiger bones, a first in wildlife crime detection, and another tracked discarded bribe money in a corruption case. Dogs have also proven effective in locating hidden cash in corruption cases, showcasing their versatility in fighting crime.

They detect explosives to prevent terrorism, search for drugs in customs, and help track missing persons or fugitives in rugged terrain. They scan airports, public events, and government sites, effectively preventing attacks. In natural disasters, K9s excel in search and rescue, locating survivors faster than human responders. Regarding wildlife crime, countries like India use dogs to track poachers and detect illegal wildlife products. K9s also aid forensic investigations, finding weapons, remains, and crime scene evidence. Recently, they've even trained to detect hidden electronic devices like SD cards and USB drives, aiding in cybercrime cases.

In the UK, dogs help combat cable theft by detecting forensic markers like SmartWater and SelectaDNA on stolen cables. This approach aids authorities in recovering stolen property and protecting infrastructure, offering a model for other countries facing similar issues.

In India, one competition of the All India Police Duty Meet focussed on the skills and capabilities of trained dogs. They are often awarded medals and monetary rewards for exceptional service. Upon retirement, these dogs receive ceremonial honours, and if dismissed, they are granted due respect for their dedication.

While forensic science evolves, canine units remain vital in solving crimes, especially in India's unyielding pursuit of justice.

(Dr. Kumar is a former IPS officer and forensic consultant to Assam government. Das is a student of FSU, Guwahati. Views personal.)