HONOLULU (KHON2) — The two newest members of Maui Police Department are part of their K9 Unit. Born in Hungary, the Belgian Malinois dogs were introduced on Oct. 16 as Make Ihe, 27-months-old, and Kū Makani, 20-months-old.
“These K9s are a first of their kind in Maui County history,” MPD said in a press release.
Officials shared both K9 completed a seven-week training program with their handlers at Gold Coast K9 in California and are certified in apprehension, narcotics detection and explosives detection.
“The implementation of apprehension K9s strengthens our ability to respond effectively to high-risk situations and represents a significant step forward in our commitment to using de-escalation tactics and modern policing strategies,” said John Pelletier, Maui police chief.
He said the K9 are trained to assist in safely apprehending suspects.
“These K9s will be deployed in situations where their presence can encourage a suspect’s surrender, bringing a swift and safer resolution to a volatile situation,” Pelletier said.
Much like non-working dogs, these K9 have their own interests when off the clock. The department said Make Ihe likes hiking and Kū Makani enjoys playing fetch.