Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) now has a Canine Unit as it continues its mandate to safeguard the nation’s borders and facilitate secure trade and travel.

The unit comprises 12 staff members and eight highly trained canines, each skilled in multiple disciplines, including the detection of narcotics, explosives, munitions, and other restricted or prohibited goods at all major ports of entry.

The staff members successfully completed a rigorous, intensive training programme between October and November, led by Colombian dog trainers Colonel (Ret’d) Chavez and Senor Vente.

The training involved pairing each canine with its handler and covered a wide array of essential skills from obstacle courses to advanced detection techniques and search methodologies. It culminated with a graduation ceremony marking a significant achievement and signalling the readiness of the unit to enter its next phase.

Following the programme, Jamaica Customs issued a news release reiterating its commitment to expanding its resources and refining its capabilities to further strengthen the country’s border security infrastructure.

“This programme represents a major leap forward in the JCA’s ongoing efforts to detect and prevent the smuggling of illicit goods, ensuring that Jamaica remains a secure and welcoming environment for legitimate trade and travel,” the agency said.

A canine and its handler conducting a search at the port as trainer Colonel (Ret’d) Chavez looks on.

One of the eight canines now at Jamaica Customs Agency.