Kapolda North Sumatera, Irjen Pol Whisnu Hermawan Februanto, with the K9 unit assisted by the Polri Headquarters, to support the search for victims still reported missing due to flash floods and landslides.

progresifjaya.co.id, CENTRAL TAPANULI – Search efforts for victims of flash floods and landslides in North Sumatera continue to intensify. To strengthen the search, the Polda North Sumatera have deployed K9 units, or trained sniffer dogs, to assist in the search process in several affected areas, particularly in Central Tapanuli Regency and Sibolga City, which were the worst-hit areas.

Kapolda North Sumatera, Irjen Pol Whisnu Hermawan Februanto, explained in a statement, that the deployment of K9 units is a strategic step to expand the search reach in areas difficult for conventional SAR teams to reach. The K9 units, equipped with professional handlers and supporting equipment, were brought in as assistance from the Polri Headquarters.

“This K9 team is being deployed to support the search for victims still reported missing due to flash floods and landslides,” said Kapolda Whisnu on Monday, (1/12).

According to him, search dogs have very high detection capabilities, especially in identifying human presence under piles of mud, rubble, or areas inaccessible to vehicles or heavy equipment. Therefore, the presence of the K9 unit is a crucial factor in expediting the search process.

He also explained, that all handlers and search dog personnel deployed are in optimal condition and equipped with special equipment for operations in disaster areas. The Polda North Sumatera have also ensured optimal logistical support, communication, and inter-agency coordination.

“Quickly finding victims is part of preserving human dignity. Every life is precious, and we are working optimally with all available resources, including K9 units,” said Kapolda Whisnu again.

In addition to the K9 unit, the Polda North Sumatera, along with Basarnas (National Search and Rescue Agency), the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), the Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD), and local governments, are also continuing to intensify the search through land sweeps, deploying heavy equipment, and remapping points where victims may still be buried. Changing weather conditions pose a challenge. However, synergy between agencies is guaranteed to remain strong.

Kapolda Whisnu also stated, that search operations will continue non-stop until all residents reported missing are found, whether safe or not.

With the additional support of K9 personnel, he hopes the search process will be more effective and provide answers for families still waiting for news of their loved ones. (Bembo)