The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Africa Centre for Security and Intelligence Studies (ACSIS), Dr Paul Boateng, has highlighted the growing importance of dogs in security operations, describing them as reliable assets in protecting lives and property.
According to Dr Boateng, some people prefer dogs to human security personnel because they cannot be bribed or easily compromised.
Speaking on the occasion of International Dog Day on August 26, Dr Boateng said dogs’ loyalty, discipline and ability to detect threats make them valuable to security operations.
“There are instances where security guards have been compromised and have ended up directing criminals to their employers. But a dog cannot be bribed, and it cannot deliberately compromise the security of its owner,” he said.
He explained that specially trained dogs are recruited into security services in several parts of the world, where they assist agencies with detecting threats, tracking suspects, identifying dangerous substances and protecting people and property.
Dr Boateng stressed that the loyalty of dogs makes them particularly useful in security operations.
“Dogs are very faithful to humans, especially to their owners. They are trained to protect, detect, and respond to threats, and that is why their contribution to security deserves to be recognised and celebrated,” he stated.
He further noted that the relationship between humans and dogs extends beyond security, describing them as loyal companions whose contribution to society should not be overlooked.
Dr Boateng speaks on dog meat consumption
Dr Boateng also addressed the controversial issue of dog meat consumption, acknowledging that while some people consider the practice unacceptable, others view it as part of their cultural traditions.
He said cultural practices differ among communities and cautioned against imposing the beliefs and practices of one group on another.
“Culture differs from one community to another, and what may be unacceptable to one group may be considered a tradition by another. We must understand these differences when discussing cultural practices,” he said.
As International Dog Day is observed, Dr Boateng’s comments have drawn attention to the important role dogs continue to play in security while highlighting the need to appreciate their loyalty and contribution to human society.
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