The Central Reserve Police Force’s (CRPF) brave K9 dog 'Rollo' has been awarded the DG Commendation Disc. Rollo recently assisted troops in detecting an IED during a special operation in the Naxal-affected KGH area in Chhattisgar's Sukma district. Born on 5 April 2023 at CRPF Dog Breeding and Training School, Rollo received intensive training from a young age. He was trained in infantry patrolling, explosive detection, and attack techniques. In April 2024, he was deployed for anti-Naxal duties with the CRPF’s 228 Battalion. The 2-year-old Rolo was declared dead at 1225 hours on 27 April 2025, with the cause of death being anaphylactic shock following 200 bee stings.
During a recent intensive search operation in the KGH area, Rollo was actively supporting the troops. Suddenly, a massive swarm of bees attacked. Rollo’s handler tried to protect him by covering him with polythene, but the bees managed to get inside and stung Rollo nearly 200 times. In extreme pain and discomfort, Rollo broke free from the protective cover and suffered further attacks. Despite being given immediate first aid and rushed for medical evacuation, he tragically died en route.
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The 228 Battalion of the CRPF bid farewell to their martyred comrade with full military honours. Soldiers reversed their weapons and paid tribute in mourning. The commendation will be formally presented to Rollo’s handler. The Director General of CRPF stated, “Rollo’s bravery and contribution will never be forgotten. This award symbolises the dedication and sacrifice made by the members of our K9 unit.”
Canine warrior Rolo's handler, Constable Shubham Gajanan of CRPF 228 BN said, "Canines are brought to us when they are only 21 days old. It is the handler's responsibility to take care of them and also train them. There is an emotional relationship and connection between the canine and its handler. After training, Rolo was also awarded the second-best canine in the team. In many operations done by 228 BN , Rolo played a major role. She played a significant role in saving troops from IEDS and searching during major operations. Between 22-25 April, Rolo did her duty with full alertness under difficult circumstances. Rolo was attacked by a swarm of bees when she entered an area where troops couldn't go. She was given first aid at the spot, but she died on the way to the medical facility. We didn't think of Rolo as a dog but as a soldier. She did very well and saved the troops. When a canine warrior passes away, it feels like a soldier has passed away."