Swann hails PSNI ‘Digi-Dog’ innovation after witnessing frontline policing in action at Antrim training campus

South Antrim MP Robin Swann with Nico the police dog at the PSNI’s Steeple Training Campus in Antrim

South Antrim MP Robin Swann has praised the PSNI Dog Section as a “vital and evolving force in modern policing” after witnessing first-hand how specially trained dogs are now being deployed to locate hidden digital devices as well as track suspects and search property.

The visit to the PSNI’s Steeple Training Campus in Antrim offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at the scale, complexity and growing importance of the Dog Section’s work, particularly as policing adapts to increasingly digital forms of crime.

Mr Swann toured the recently upgraded facilities at the Steeple headquarters, where he observed live operational demonstrations showcasing the dogs’ capabilities in real-world scenarios, including property searches and suspect apprehension.

Inside the PSNI Dog Section’s frontline role

The Dog Section plays a critical role across a wide range of policing activity, supporting officers on the ground in locating suspects, securing evidence and assisting in high-risk situations.

During the visit, Mr Swann saw how handlers and dogs operate as tightly coordinated units, trained to respond quickly and effectively in dynamic and often dangerous environments.

The demonstrations highlighted not only the physical capabilities of the dogs but also the precision and discipline involved in their training, reinforcing their importance in frontline policing operations across Northern Ireland.

‘Digi-Dog’ pilot signals shift towards digital crime-fighting

A key focus of the visit was the PSNI’s innovative ‘Digi-Dog’ pilot programme, which represents a significant shift in how policing responds to the challenges of modern, technology-driven crime.

The initiative involves training dogs to detect concealed electronic devices, including mobile phones, SIM cards, tracking devices and drones—items which can be critical in criminal investigations but are often deliberately hidden.

By integrating this capability into the Dog Section, the PSNI is strengthening its ability to uncover digital evidence, supporting investigations ranging from organised crime to safeguarding operations.

The pilot reflects a broader move within policing to adapt to evolving threats, where digital devices often hold crucial information linked to criminal activity.

Modern facilities supporting high-performance policing

Mr Swann also viewed the upgraded facilities at the Steeple Campus, which are designed to support both the welfare of the dogs and the effectiveness of their training.

The improvements ensure that the PSNI can maintain high standards in preparing dogs for operational duties, while also prioritising their care and wellbeing throughout their service.

The campus serves as a central hub for the development of specialist skills, enabling the Dog Section to continue expanding its capabilities in response to changing policing demands.

Swann: ‘A unique and essential part of policing’

Reflecting on the visit, Mr Swann said:

“It was fantastic to visit the Steeple Campus and see these brilliant facilities in action. We are incredibly fortunate to have such a high standard of training and care based in South Antrim.

“The passion and dedication of the officers and staff was easy to see and it’s clear that the welfare of the dogs and the effectiveness of their training are the top priorities.

“The Dog Section is a really interesting and unique aspect of policing. These dogs carry out a huge range of different tasks and responsibilities to keep the public safe.

“Seeing how the officers and their dogs work together, the important role these dogs play in a wide range of policing, and how the team is working to adapt through the new digital pilot really highlighted how important the Dog Section is for modern policing.”

His remarks underline the growing recognition of the Dog Section’s expanding remit, particularly as it bridges traditional policing methods with new technological challenges.

Evolving policing capability in Northern Ireland

The visit highlights how policing in Northern Ireland continues to evolve, with specialist units such as the Dog Section adapting to meet both physical and digital threats.

From tracking suspects on the ground to uncovering hidden electronic evidence, the role of police dogs is becoming increasingly diverse—positioning them as a key asset in both current and future investigations.

As initiatives like the ‘Digi-Dog’ pilot develop, the PSNI is signalling its intent to remain responsive to emerging forms of crime while maintaining strong operational support on the ground.

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At a glance

• Robin Swann visited the PSNI Dog Training Campus at Steeple in Antrim

• He observed live demonstrations including property searches and suspect apprehension

• The PSNI is piloting ‘Digi-Dog’—training dogs to detect hidden electronic devices

• Devices include mobile phones, SIM cards, trackers and drones

• The initiative aims to strengthen evidence-gathering in digital-era crime

• Recently upgraded facilities support both training and animal welfare

• Swann praised the dedication of officers and the high standard of care

• The Dog Section plays a wide-ranging role in frontline policing across Northern Ireland