Drug Sniffing Dog Finds $489,000 Worth of Opium

Drug Sniffing Dog Finds $489,000 Worth of Opium

Shadow, an 8-year-old Belgian Malinois with U.S. Customs and Border Protection, found Opium in 4 packages originating from Laos at the International Mail Facility near O’Hare International Airport Monday afternoon weighing more then 30lbs. The drugs were estimated to be worth more than $489,000 on the street according to the Press Release from U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

The boxes were found over a several hour period were labeled for addresses in Wisconsin and Minnesota were supposed to be filled with fabrics and traditional medicine according to their package slip. Shadow alerted to the boxes and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officers found fabric leaves, twigs, and wood chips also soaked in Opium.

Shadow, the Belgian Malinois, is one of the top canines at the agency, and his “nose definitely know how to ferret our hidden drugs in imported cargo and mail,” said William Ferrara, director of field operations. He “works tirelessly keeping our country and communities safe from harmful drugs,” Ferrara said in the statement.

On Thursday, April 1, Chicago Customs and Border Protection will celebrate the 43rd Anniversary of their Canine Program. The Chicago Canine Program is made up of teams of CBP handlers and their partners including Shadow the drug sniffing dog. These handlers undergo many rigorous weeks of specialized training with their assigned dogs to find dangerous, illegal and prohibited items that are being smuggled into the country. CBP canine teams are responsible for locating hidden illegal drugs; prohibited meat and plant products; and currency that is not properly reported.

The career of a CBP canine usually lasts until they are unable to work due to age or an injury. Upon retirement, these dogs can go live with their handlers or are adopted by a loving family.