PHOTOS & GRAPHIC: Amber Qua
Hours before the National Day Parade (NDP) commences at the Padang, specialised units are already hard at work securing key locations in the vicinity, monitoring the swelling crowds and ensuring the safety of the nation’s biggest celebration.
Playing an important role in the operations are Sgt2 Lee Xin Long Xavier and SSSgt Chiam Chin Siong from the Police K-9 Unit. They share what it takes to secure NDP and the bond with their four-legged partners that makes it possible.
A Trusted Partnership Between Handler and Dog
Sgt2 Xavier training with his K-9 partner, Dipsy, at Police K-9 HQ. PHOTO: Amber Qua
It was Sgt2 Xavier’s stint as a K-9 handler during his National Service (NS) which exposed him to the vital role of the unit in security operations. He has been with the K-9 Unit for the past seven years.
“What attracted me the most [to the job] was the opportunity to form a close working relationship with a highly trained dog and contribute to national security in a very direct and impactful way,” Sgt2 Xavier said.
He is currently paired with a German Shepherd named Dipsy. Their relationship is one built on trust, consistency and communication, nurtured over hours spent training and patrolling together.
Playtime between K-9s and their handlers is crucial in fostering a strong bond, enhancing communication and reinforcing training. PHOTO: Amber Qua
“On duty, Dipsy is alert and focused, protective and precise. Off duty, she will show her affectionate and playful side,” he shared.
SSSgt Chin Siong and his K-9 partner, Nero. PHOTO: Amber Qua
As for SSSgt Chin Siong, he has loved dogs since he was young, even though he never had the chance to keep one. When he learnt of the Police K-9 Unit, the idea of working closely with dogs instantly struck a chord.
SSSgt Chin Siong’s K-9 companion is Nero, a highly energetic and driven Belgian Malinois. “[Nero] loves human interaction, so it makes working with him very enjoyable,” he said.
Despite only having been paired with Nero for close to a year, SSSgt Chin Siong and Nero share a close bond. PHOTO: Desiree Seah
Patrolling with Pride During NDP
Being deployed to a major national event such as NDP requires rigorous preparation by both K-9s and their handlers. Dogs such as Dipsy and Nero are trained in patrolling and public security, undergoing specialised drills to familiarise them with large crowds and loud noises, from cheering spectators to fireworks. This conditioning ensures that the dogs remain calm and focused in carrying out their duties.
SSSgt Chin Siong and Nero patrolling alongside officers from the Police Tactical Unit, Special Operations Command, near the Padang. PHOTO: Amber Qua.
During NDP, the K-9 Unit patrols at key areas to strengthen Police presence and deter potential threats. The team also cooperates closely with units such as the Police Tactical Unit, enabling a swift response should there be any incident that calls for their specific capabilities.
In the heat of the day, handlers ensure that their dogs remain operationally ready. This includes making sure the dogs are well-rested and properly hydrated between shifts, so that they are prepared to respond throughout the deployment.
Reflecting on Their NDP Deployments: A Veteran Versus a First-Timer
Both SSSgt Chin Siong and Nero have experience in patrolling major national events, having been deployed during the General Election period earlier this year. PHOTO: Amber Qua
For seasoned handler SSSgt Chin Siong, who has experienced multiple NDP deployments in the past, securing such high-stakes events provides him with a sense of fulfilment that motivates him to continue participating year after year. SSSgt Chin Siong shared: “When I am deployed at such events, I feel that I am contributing to the NDP celebration itself.”
Sgt2 Xavier and Dipsy preparing for their first NDP deployment on 9 August. PHOTO: Amber Qua
On the other hand, this year marks Sgt2 Xavier’s first NDP deployment, an experience he sees as an opportunity to enhance his coordination and teamwork with other units.
“This deployment is an excellent opportunity to fine-tune our future readiness and showcase the K-9 Unit’s contributions to large-scale events,” he said.
