Customs and Police officers with detector dog Willow following her induction into Samoa’s Joint K9 Unit, strengthening border security operations. Photo: Lopajoyce Fiti / Government

Detector dog Willow has been officially inducted into Samoa’s Joint K9 Unit, alongside the certification of three local officers trained to strengthen drug detection and border enforcement.

The ceremony was held on Friday 10 April 2026, where the Minister of Customs, Hon. Masinalupe Leatuvao Makesi Pisi, confirmed the addition of Willow and her handler, Customs Officer Benjamin Milo, who completed training in New Zealand under the Pacific Detector Dog Programme.

Two more officers, Customs Officer Robert Pitoitua and Constable Miracle Malaefono, were also certified as narcotic detector dog handlers, increasing Samoa’s operational K9 capability.

The Minister said the development strengthens Samoa’s ability to detect and deter illicit drugs while responding to the growing risks of transnational crime. He also acknowledged the support of the Government of New Zealand, which provided training and resources, including the detector dog.

New Zealand High Commissioner to Samoa, Si’alei Van Toor, attended the ceremony alongside government officials and representatives from regional partners.

The K9 unit operates as a joint effort between the Ministry of Customs & Revenue Samoa and the Samoa Police, Prisons & Corrections Services, with officials stating that coordination between agencies remains central to border protection efforts.

The programme forms part of ongoing cooperation between Samoa and New Zealand, focused on strengthening frontline enforcement and maintaining border security.