Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian National Police (INP) dispatched 10 experienced search and rescue (SAR) K9 dogs aboard a dedicated CN-295 aircraft on Sunday (16/8/2026), to assist earthquake victim recovery operations in Flores, East Nusa Tenggara.

Flight CN-295 P-4501 departed Pondok Cabe airport for Labuan Bajo carrying 21 personnel from the Animal Police Directorate, including team leader First Inspector Erasmus, handlers, and veterinary staff, along with 3.4 tons of emergency logistics.

"Speed is paramount in disaster response," said INP Public Relations Division Head of the Public Information Bureau Brigadier GeneralTrunoyudo Wisnu Andiko. "Our primary objective is providing evacuation and rescue support for survivors while aiding search efforts across priority areas including Sikka, Manggarai, and East Manggarai."

The deployed canine units, trained in victim location and cadaver detection under collapsed structures, previously served in Sumatera disaster operations in late 2025. Upon arrival in Labuan Bajo, the team divided into three operational squads under regional police coordination.

(mg/ta/pr/rs)