Jailhouse hounds trained to sniff out hidden illegal drugs have been honoured for their vital crime-busting role behind bars.
Two inmates at Glasgow’s Barlinnie jail spent three weeks working on statues dedicated to the prison pooch patrol, made entirely out of scrap metal.
The duo, neither of whom had any background in art or fabrication, were supported by officers Iain, Graham and Phil to create the permanent tribute to the sniffer squad.
The Scottish Prison Service (SPS) say the statues honour the more than 130 “loyal SPS search dogs” that have played a vital role in tackling contraband since they were introduced in the 1990s.
They say the dogs are “trained to search every part of the establishment, from internal and external areas to vehicles, property, and any individuals entering or moving within the prison” and have been instrumental in intercepting illegal substances, helping to maintain safety and security for both staff and those in custody.
There are currently 16 canine officers working within the National Tactical Search Unit alongside their prison officer handlers.
They are deployed during prison searches, visits and intelligence-led operations.
SPS officials described the memorial as a tribute to the “dedication, loyalty and skill” of the dogs, many of which have served for years before retiring.
The introduction of drug detection dogs marked a significant step in the prison service’s efforts to curb the flow of illicit items behind bars.
Commemorating future service
They say the statues are intended not only to commemorate past service but also to recognise the ongoing contribution of dog units in supporting prison security across the country.
Scotland’s prisons are swamped by drugs with inmates secreting illicit stashes in all sorts of sneaky hiding spots in a bid to beat officer searches and the snout squad.
Small amounts can be hidden in seemingly ordinary personal items, as well as in prison fixtures and fittings.
It means prisons are engaged in an ongoing battle to stop illicit substances being smuggled into prisons by various routes, including by visitors and “throw overs”.
Drones are being increasingly used by organised crime gangs to fly drugs packages and mobile phones to cell windows or into prison grounds.
The stunning commemorative statues to the sniffer dogs were unveiled at the SPS College near Falkirk earlier this week where they have been given pride of place.
A Scottish Prison Service spokesperson said: “Our search dogs carry out invaluable work alongside their handlers, helping to keep people safe and secure.
“We are delighted that there is now a lasting tribute honouring their dedication, professionalism, and unwavering loyalty to the people they work alongside.”
The K9 narcs undergo an annual assessment to “ensure they continue to meet highest standards of accuracy and operational reliability”.
Drug-busting mutts typically begin their careers aged between six months and three years, working alongside their handler until they retire at around nine or 10.
The SPS added: “Over those years, the daily partnership and constant contact allow them to develop an exceptionally strong bond and it is these relationships that inspired the creation of the statues.”
When they retire the hard-working dogs are rehomed with their trainers or a member of SPS staff.
