Redange-sur-Attert was this year's site of Luxembourg's biennial Police Day, an event that draws large crowds every two years, with visitors having the opportunity to explore various information stands, view demonstrations, and get a close look at police equipment and vehicles.
A wide range of displays and activities took place, including interactive booths, high-performance vehicles, and gear from across the police force. Among the highlights were two police helicopters, drones, motorbikes, and even specially imported high-speed patrol cars from Italy, which drew excitement from both children and adults alike.
One of the helicopters on display came from the Police Air Support Unit. Michel Buschmann, a member of the unit, explained that their missions are diverse. Helicopters are used primarily for border surveillance and preventative patrols across the country, especially in areas with higher burglary rates, he stated, adding that they frequently assist in missing person cases. Altogether, the unit logs around 600 flight hours annually, split between its two helicopters, Buschmann explained.
Police Day was designed to give the general public insight into the wide scope of police work. Frank Stolz, spokesperson for the Grand Ducal Police, said the goal of the event is to showcase the diversity of units and services that make up the force. Recruitment is also a key focus: with the police looking to hire over 200 people each year, events like this offer an ideal chance to introduce the different career paths available, Stolz explained.
Demonstrations took place throughout the venue, including impressive displays by the special intervention unit and the canine section. Spectators watched as police dogs took down mock suspects or sniffed out drugs hidden in bags. Currently, 16 dogs are active within the Luxembourg canine unit.
Christian Vanwissen, head of the canine section, explained that their dogs are deployed in a wide variety of situations – from drug searches during raids to identifying suspicious luggage that may contain explosives. He explained further that they also support officers during nighttime break-ins or when people go missing. Whenever officers in the field need backup, the canine unit is ready to respond, Vanwissen stated.
Dogs are typically brought into the unit at around one year of age, ensuring they are in good physical health before training begins. The cost of a police dog can reach up to €6,000. Training, which includes both basic and specialist instruction, takes roughly a year. After retirement – usually around age ten – the dogs remain with their handlers. They are considered an essential part of the force’s crime-fighting capabilities.
Vanwissen also mentioned a recent case where a so-called "money dog" detected several thousand euros hidden in a wall safe – something human officers likely wouldn’t have discovered on their own. In another operation, following a bank machine explosion in Kayl, a suspect fled the scene at night. Vanwissen stated that thanks to the dog’s tracking abilities, officers were able to pick up the trail.
Held every two years in early June, Police Day continues to offer a window into the breadth of modern policing. And with the canine unit regularly seeking new handlers, opportunities abound for those interested in joining this specialised field.
