The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force’s K-9 Unit will be replenished following the “untimely and suspicious” death of Police Canine 642 “Tyson,” Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre confirmed Monday.
Speaking at the weekly pre-Cabinet press briefing, Pierre assured the public that replacements will be secured as soon as possible. “Once the dogs are available, you’re going to get more dogs,” he said.
Tyson, a highly trained detection dog, was hailed by Assistant Commissioner of Police Dr. Mashama Sealy as a pivotal asset in narcotics and weapons recovery operations. She described him as “a loyal and courageous partner in the fight against crime” who contributed significantly to national security.
The Prime Minister also condemned what he characterized as “deeply inappropriate” political attacks surrounding the matter. “The head of this party (the UWP) has gone so far and stooped so low to insinuate that I am responsible for the death of the police dog,” Pierre said. “Where do you reach? Where do you go when you reach that level?”
The RSLPF has launched a formal investigation into Tyson’s death, stressing that the matter will be treated with the utmost seriousness.
