inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian National Police (INP) moved quickly to strengthen the search for victims after the earthquake in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT). Ten bloodhounds from the Directorate of Wildlife Unit were flown from Pondok Cabe to Labuan Bajo.
The flight was led by Captain M. Rahman and Hendri S, along with five other crew members. The aircraft arrived in Labuan Bajo around 5:05 PM.
The use of the dedicated aircraft on the dedicated route was intended to expedite the rescue effort. In addition to delivering the ten trained bloodhounds, the aircraft also transported operational equipment and logistical support to support field operations.
A total of 21 Directorate of Wildlife Unit personnel were deployed to support the 10 bloodhounds. The team was led by First Police Inspector Erasmus, Head of the K9 Team, with support from Second Police Inspector Linda and Triyo as the veterinary personnel. Other personnel include handlers and guards tasked with accompanying the K9s and ensuring the team's safety during the operation. Each K9 is accompanied by a handler who understands their individual characteristics and abilities, ensuring the K9s' capabilities are optimized during the search for victims in the field.
The ten bloodhounds deployed are Walet, Ari, Rubin, Dasa, Gyra, Sita, Koni, Kyara, Gejlon, and Gizi. They possess Canine Search and Rescue (CSAR) capabilities to assist in the search for victims and cadaver detection, which is the ability to detect the distinctive scent emanating from deceased human bodies.
This capability is crucial in disaster situations when victims are under rubble, covered by material, or in locations that are difficult to locate visually.
Brigadier General Trunoyudo Wisnu Andiko, Head of Public Information for the INP Public Relations Division, stated that speed is crucial in disaster management.
"Speed is crucial. This morning, we are sending the team. The division of tasks will be carried out through coordination and communication with the NTT Regional Police," Trunoyudo said.
Trunoyudo stated that the police understand that the search and rescue efforts are crucial for the affected communities.
"We fully understand and share the same empathy for the affected victims there. The most important thing is how the police can provide assistance and rescue for the surviving victims," Trunoyudo said.
He added that the K9 team will be directed according to the needs of the region.
(ad/ta/pr/rs)
