In a major push to intensify the war on drugs, the Meghalaya government is set to deploy nine trained dogs as part of its anti-narcotics operations. These canines, specially procured to support drug detection efforts, will soon join the state’s Anti-Narcotics Task Force (ANTF) following their professional training.
Social Welfare Minister Paul Lyngdoh, while addressing reporters on Thursday, confirmed the move as part of a broader strategy under the state’s DREAM initiative to curb the inflow of narcotics. “The DGP has briefed us that she has been following up with the MHA, which will take some time, but the process is on,” Lyngdoh stated.
“Meanwhile, we have procured nine trained dogs which will be part of our dog squad, and these nine dogs are now sent for training by professionals. Once that is completed, they will also join the state ANTF in assisting us to detect narcotics and drugs entering Meghalaya,” he said.
The deployment of the canine squad marks a significant step toward enhancing on-ground surveillance and interdiction capabilities in the fight against drug trafficking.