Minister of Justice Mr. drs. Arthur Dowers has awarded official certifications to eleven K9 handlers who successfully completed their training at BOT K9. During the ceremony, the Minister commended the participants for their commitment, discipline, and professional growth, marking a significant advancement in the island’s security capabilities.
The graduating group includes six handlers from the Korrektie Instituut Aruba (KIA) and five from the Korps Policial Aruba (KPA). Accompanied by their service dogs, the teams demonstrated proficiency in a wide range of specialized competencies essential for Aruba’s safety. The certification process validated their skills in detecting illegal drugs, firearms, ammunition, and license plates, as well as advanced techniques in surveillance, human scent detection, and crime scene investigation.
The event highlighted the critical partnership between the handlers and their dogs, illustrating the dedication and trust required to function effectively as a unit. Trainer and advisor Dick van Laanen was present to congratulate the graduates on their impressive performance. This certification initiative, supported by BOT K9, KIA, and KPA, underscores a continued commitment to professionalizing law enforcement and ensuring public safety through improved inter-agency collaboration.
