09-05-2025
- Business
- Western Telegraph
Pembrokeshire dog expert helping frontline teams in Moldova
Stuart Phillips, who specialises in this field with more than 20 years of experience, has spent the past several weeks working with Moldova Customs at strategic points like the Ukraine–Moldova and Moldova–Romania borders, as well as Chisinău International Airport.
He helped to strengthen their frontline detection dog programme, working closely with Moldovan handlers.
He worked together with them on improving their operational skills and increasing canine search capabilities.
Mr Phillips is known for his work with detection dog teams around the globe.
His prestigious dogs were even awarded the PDSA Order of Merit for their exceptional tobacco detection work.
They were presented by Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Edinburgh at the Tower of London in 2023.
Mr Phillips said: "It's been a privilege to work alongside such motivated teams here.
"The progress these handlers and dogs have made in a short space of time is a real credit to their dedication."
His skills are required worldwide, thanks to his success in the UK supporting Trading Standards, police forces, and HMRC in combating organised crime involving illicit tobacco.
Law enforcement agencies globally are keen to benefit from his knowledge.
