Karnataka to deploy dog squads in prisons to combat drug smuggling

In a bid to curb the smuggling of illegal drugs into prisons, the Karnataka government is introducing specially trained dog squads. The decision follows reports of rising drug use inside correctional facilities, despite existing surveillance measures.

Home Minister G Parameshwara informed the Legislative Council that two Belgian Malinois dogs have already been procured for Bengaluru Central Prisons and trained to detect narcotics. The initiative aims to assist prison staff in identifying and preventing drug trafficking within prison premises.

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To strengthen security, authorities have also installed 280 AI-powered surveillance cameras, baggage scanners, and jammers across prisons. Additionally, personnel from the Karnataka Industrial Security Force have been deployed to enhance vigilance.

Apart from drug-related concerns, the minister highlighted a surge in cybercrimes in Karnataka. He noted that while crimes such as murder and rape have declined, cyber offenses have significantly increased, with approximately 22,000 cases recorded last year.

Addressing the spread of fake news on social media, Parameshwara revealed that police have registered 2,019 FIRs related to online misinformation, with 676 cases initiated suo motu. To counter the issue, a fact-checking application has been launched, and social media monitoring desks have been established at police stations.

The government’s multi-pronged approach aims to enhance prison security while addressing emerging law enforcement challenges in the digital age.