Kaziranga, Assam: Jubi, an eight-year-old Belgian Malinois and a key member of the K9 Sniffer Dog Squad of biodiversity and wildlife conservation NGO Aaranyak, passed away on 7 November after years of exceptional service in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNP&TR).

Born in 2017, Jubi was stationed at the Bagori Range of Kaziranga National Park for over seven years, working closely with her handler, Sanatan Mali. She played a crucial role in combating wildlife crime, including poaching, and was trained to track poachers and sniff out wildlife parts during investigations.

“Salute to our Braveheart for tireless service in protecting the park. Your keen nose and loyal heart kept wildlife safe and guarded our sanctuary. May you find peace and joy in your happy hunting grounds. Forever remembered, forever missed,” said Dr Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of KNP&TR, condoling Jubi’s passing.

Jubi’s death has left a void in Aaranyak’s K9 squad. “Jubi was one of our most skilled and energetic K9 members for the past eight years, and her sudden loss is heart-wrenching,” said Dr Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, Executive Director of Aaranyak.

Her handler, Sanatan Mali, described the Belgian Malinois as “a loyal, skilled and brave companion. K9 Jubi may be gone, but her services, bravery, loyalty and memories will be cherished and forever will be in the heart.”

Over the years, Jubi made significant contributions to anti-poaching and law enforcement efforts. Some of her notable accomplishments include:

Helping the forest patrol team locate and apprehend a poacher’s residence in the Agoratoli region in 2018.

Assisting the police patrol team in identifying the main suspect in a 2018 murder case near Geleki.

Aiding police in catching a burglar near Bagori Range in 2019 and in detaining a thief while recovering money and valuables in 2020.

Helping forest patrol teams locate poachers’ houses and detain them in Burapahar in 2023.

Assisting in two major operations against rhino poachers in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve in 2025.

Earlier this year, on 26 January, Jubi took part in a Dog Parade at Bagori Range alongside other K9 sniffer dogs deployed in Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve as part of India’s Republic Day celebrations.

Supported by the David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation in collaboration with Aaranyak and KNP&TR, Jubi was widely appreciated for her efficiency in anti-poaching operations and her dedication to wildlife protection.