The OSCE's Transnational Threats Department trained canine team instructors in the detection of drugs from 9 to 13 March in Chișinău, Moldova.
With the support of experts from the Guardia Civil of Spain, 15 canine team instructors from Moldova's General Police Inspectorate, General Inspectorate of the Border Police and Customs Service strengthened their skills in advanced scent detection, contamination control and search techniques.
Practical exercises were designed to mirror real-life drug trafficking methods, helping participants improve their dogs' effectiveness in locating concealed drugs.
"Drug trafficking networks are constantly adapting their methods and canine teams remain a critical frontline capability for detecting illicit substances. The knowledge and techniques gained during this training will significantly strengthen our operational effectiveness," said Olivia Sanduleac, the Head of the Canine Unit of the Moldovan Customs Service.
By strengthening tactical skills of canine units of Moldova - which play a crucial part in combating not only drug trafficking but also other forms of organized crime - the training enhanced their operational readiness and supported broader efforts to counter criminal networks operating across borders.
The course was delivered as part of the OSCE extrabudgetary project " Support to the Law Enforcement Agencies in Moldova in Response to the Security Challenges in the Region ". The project aims to strengthen Moldova's capacity to counter transnational threats in line with international commitments. It is funded by France, Germany, Poland, the United Kingdom and the United States.
