Three UK-trained customs detection dogs begin work in Bulgaria

Three customs detection dogs trained in the United Kingdom, together with their handlers, will join efforts in Bulgaria to detect illicit goods and disrupt the activities of criminal groups. The dogs and their handlers have undergone specialised training in the UK and have been provided with the necessary equipment with funding from the UK's National Crime Agency.

“The arrival of Merlin, Dewey and Luna shows that the partnership between the United Kingdom and Bulgaria is measured not in words, but in tangible results. By sharing knowledge, expertise and capabilities, we are supporting our Bulgarian partners in their efforts to counter organised criminal groups and their illegal activities,” said His Excellency Nathaniel Copsey, Ambassador of the United Kingdom to Bulgaria.

The three dogs are between 11 and 16 months old. Merlin and Dewey are male Cocker Spaniels, while Luna is a female Black Labrador Retriever. They have demonstrated the required character traits, including high levels of activity and playfulness.

Merlin and Luna will work shifts along the Bulgarian-Turkish border, at the Kapitan Andreevo, Lesovo and Malko Tarnovo border checkpoints.

Dewey will specialise in operations at Vasil Levski Airport, where he will inspect cargo shipments, postal and courier consignments, and passengers’ baggage.