Paw and Order! Latest garda recruit helps sniff out suspected drug drivers at checkpoint
Two people test positive at the roadside in Galway for the presence of drugs in their system and one vehicle was impounded for insurance-related matters
Gardai in Galway have unveiled one of their newest recruits and say members of the public can expect to see a lot more of him.
The new canine member - Gunner - was on duty at the weekend for a joint operation between the local Crime Unit and Galway County East Community Engagement.
"Gunner joined us for high-visibility MIT (Mandatory Intoxicant Testing) checkpoints as part of Operation Intercept," said a spokesperson who confirmed a number of detections were made on the day.
"Two people tested positive at the roadside for the presence of drugs in their system and one vehicle was impounded for insurance-related matters. Multiple offences were detected related to other road traffic matters, which will be dealt with by way of Fixed Charge Notice or Summons," the stated.
In a post on social media, gardai said Gunner "has a good nose for the job" and that members of the public can expect to see much more of him.
Gardai say the objective of high-visibility operations is to promote awareness and deter drug use, perform searches for illegal drugs and deter drink and drug-driving.