The Malta police force dog section has been involved in 3,200 inspections this year thus far, with 50% of said inspections taking place at the Malta International Airport, Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela announced today.

The Minister, along with Police Commissioner Michael Cassar, attended the initiation of four new dogs into the force at the Mosta fort.

The Minister explained that the dogs play an important role in assisting police in their duties.

Five drug finds this year were thanks to the K9 section, he said. In addition, the separate dog section at Kordin prison were involved in 2,300 inspections, resulting in 15 drug finds.

The Minister and the Commissioner spoke of the relationship between dog and handler, comparing it to that of a family.

The section will be at the forefront of security when CHOGM as well as the EU Africa Summit take place on the island later this year.