Drug-sniffing dogs are becoming Cambodia’s new tool in the war on drugs
Cambodia has launched its first team of drug-sniffing dogs as part of a national effort to fight drug trafficking.
The dogs, trained by the Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC), will work with a Special Intervention Unit based in the capital, Phnom Penh, to support police operations targeting illegal drugs.
The move comes as Cambodian authorities face growing challenges linked to drug crime, both within the country and across the region.
Lieutenant General Khoeng Sarath, head of the Anti-Drug Department, observed the dogs in action on June 18 and urged handlers to ensure the animals are kept healthy, well-fed and regularly trained.
The five dogs currently deployed are part of a larger program launched earlier this year.
In June, 20 national police officers completed a canine training course at CMAC’s institute in Kampong Chhnang province, qualifying them as official handlers. CMAC then donated ten trained dogs to the National Police.
The project is supported by a memorandum of understanding between the National Police and CMAC, signed in January, which also covers training in demining and explosive detection.
Officials say the programme will improve public safety and strengthen Cambodia’s capacity to address drug trafficking.
CMAC, which has previously trained dogs for mine detection and peacekeeping, now aims to use its expertise to support domestic law enforcement and international cooperation.
In the first five months of 2025, Cambodian authorities reported more than 4,100 drug cases and seized over two tonnes of narcotics. More than 10,000 people have been arrested in connection with these offences.
The Cambodian government has described drug crime as a serious national concern and says it is committed to using every available tool, including trained dogs, to disrupt illegal networks.
This story is written and edited by the Global South World team, you can contact us here.
