Loyal canine hero Icon retires from Udupi district police after 10 years of service

Team Udayavani, Aug 30, 2024, 4:29 PM IST

After 10 years and 25 days of dedicated service in detecting explosives, Icon, a Labrador Retriever, has officially retired from the Udupi District Police Canine Unit.

Born on August 5, 2014, Icon joined the canine unit on November 5, 2014. Trained under handler APC Ganesh M. (1444), Icon underwent nine months of rigorous training at CAR South, Adugodi, specializing in explosive detection.

During its service, Icon was deployed in over 417 special assignments across Udupi and other districts. The dog played a crucial role in security operations during the visits of esteemed dignitaries, including the President, Prime Minister, Chief Ministers, and foreign delegates. Icon was also instrumental in ensuring safety during high-profile events like the Air Show, G20 Summit, Dattajayanti, international cricket matches, Sagar Kavach, and daily duties at locations such as Malpe Port, Kaup Lighthouse, Manipal University, railway stations, and more. Notably, Icon successfully detected a crude bomb in Brahmavar, preventing potential harm.

On February 22, 2020, Icon was awarded a silver medal at a police duty meet, bringing honor to Udupi district and the police department.

A retirement ceremony was held to honor Icon’s service, attended by Superintendent of Police Dr. Arun K. IPS, Additional Superintendent of Police Parameshwar Hegde K.S.P.S., Udupi Sub-Division Deputy Superintendent of Police Prabhu D.T. K.S.P.S., District Armed Reserve Deputy Superintendent of Police Timmappa Gowda G. K.S.P.S., Inspector S. Ravikumar, and other district officers and staff.