By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Oct 10: The Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Sarawak is mourning the loss of one of its most dedicated service dogs, a nine-year-old English Springer Spaniel named Sue, who passed away peacefully at her base in Serian Fire Station on Tuesday (Oct 7).
According to a media release, Sue, who had been battling bone cancer since mid-2024, served faithfully as a fire forensic detection dog and was remembered for her courage, loyalty, and remarkable contributions to countless investigations.
Born on June 29, 2016, in the United Kingdom, Sue began her duty with Bomba Sarawak on Oct 13, 2018. Throughout her years of service, her keen sense of smell helped officers detect accelerants and uncover hidden evidence at fire scenes across the State.
Her sharp instincts were instrumental in solving numerous arson and fire-related cases, most notably during the CityOne Mall explosion in Kuching on Dec 4, 2018, which claimed three lives and injured 26 others.
Wearing her protective boots, Sue worked alongside her handler, TBBK II Maxwell Joe Richard, to uncover the truth behind the devastating blast.
“Sue was more than just a working dog. She was a loyal teammate, a symbol of courage, and a cherished companion to all of us who served alongside her,” said Maxwell during a small but emotional farewell ceremony held on Tuesday afternoon at the Serian Fire Station.
Bomba Sarawak Zone 2 chief PgKB II Gawai John also paid tribute to Sue’s dedication.
“Sue was not only part of our team, she was part of our family. Her contributions to the Fire and Rescue Department will never be forgotten. She helped us uncover the truth behind many tragic fires, often working tirelessly in challenging and dangerous conditions. Today, we honour her bravery, loyalty, and the invaluable service she gave to the people of Sarawak,” she said. — DayakDaily
