In a swift police operation in Sambhal, Uttar Pradesh, a sniffer dog named Mary played a pivotal role in solving the rape case of a six-year-old girl. With no CCTV footage or eyewitnesses available, Sambhal SP deployed the seven-year-old Labrador retriever, who has a strong track record in complex cases. Police recovered a handkerchief-like scarf from the crime scene, which was used to give Mary the scent.
Mary led the investigation team through narrow lanes of the locality, passing a tea stall before stopping outside a house less than 300 metres away. When police raided the residence, the suspect had fled. During the subsequent chase, the accused fired at the team, sustained a bullet injury in retaliatory action, and was eventually overpowered and arrested.
The girl was moved to a medical facility. To verify the trail, authorities conducted a scent identification parade at the police station, where Mary correctly identified the accused. The suspect later confessed to the crime and has been booked under the POCSO Act. SP Bishnoi announced a Rs 10,000 reward for Mary and commendation for her handler, praising the canine’s contribution in cracking the case within 48 hours.
