OSCE Supports Advanced K9 Training to Combat Illegal Arms Trafficking

Fewer illegal guns mean more safety for people.

Last week, special police forces from Southeast Europe and Ukraine completed the qualification course for police dog handlers, organized by the OSCE Mission together with the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

The course aimed to strengthen the detection of small arms, light weapons and ammunition under demanding conditions – high in the mountains and deep in the forest.

Building on previous programs, the course focused on joint deployment, tactical co-ordination and compatibility between dog handlers and special units.

“This course is about practical security for the region and Europe,” said Ambassador Kilian Wahl, Head of the OSCE Mission to Skopje. “Better trained police forces mean fewer illegal guns on the streets and a contribution to the safety of all people.”

Through the SALW Project, the OSCE supports North Macedonia’s efforts to further develop its Police Dog Unit as a regional center of expertise and contributes to stronger regional responses to organized crime.