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Handler – Srikant Kabbur
K9 Kanaka dies in road accident
She was no ordinary dog, but a star in the police force. She played a crucial role in detecting threats and ensuring fool-proof security at countless VVIP events, including those attended by the Prime Minister, the President and the chief ministers. But fate struck a cruel blow to sniffer dog Kanaka—she died in a road accident on Sunday.The six-year-old was part of the security team deployed for Hampi Utsav at the heritage site in Vijayanagar district when it was mowed down by a KKRTC bus. Kanaka was on a morning walk along with handler Srikant Kabbur, who had shared an unbreakable bond with him over the years when the accident took place.Despite immediate medical attention at Hosapete Veterinary Hospital, the labrador succumbed to injuries within 90 minutes. Kanaka’s death left her human colleagues and fellow canine companions, Arya and Paru, distressed. Born on Jan 28, 2019, Kanaka went through a year-long intense training in Bengaluru, especially in detecting explosives, before being attached to the Haveri police unit.As a testament to Kanaka’s loyalty and service, Haveri police bid an emotional farewell to their favourite canine at the police parade ground. Officers and handlers laid wreaths, and Kanaka was given full police honours, just as any fallen officer would be.”For the last four years, she was more than just a police dog—she was my partner, my friend. She was always eager to work, always ready to serve,” handler Kabbur said, his voice heavy with grief. “It is heartbreaking that we lost her this way.”A senior officer recalled Kanaka’s efficiency, particularly during security operations for election campaigns and major political gatherings. “She was one of the best we had. Her ability to detect threats instantly made our job easier and ensured safety at high-profile events. Her absence will be deeply felt,” he said. Kanaka became the eyes and nose of the police during VVIP events, especially public rallies of the Prime Minister, Aero India, the legislative session at Belagavi, election rallies, Mysuru Dasara, Hampi Utsav, and visits of high-profile personalities across Karnataka over the last five years. During her tenure with Haveri police, Kanaka carried out security tasks at close to 100 such events.
