The Maui Police Department announced the addition of two new K9 units named Maka Ihe and Kū Makani on Thursday. The dogs are the first of their kind for MPD, which says they will help apprehend suspects in a manner that’s safer for officers and suspects. Courtesy photo

The newest additions to the Maui Police Department — two Belgian Malinois that the department says are the first of their kind in Maui County — will give police an important new tool to safely apprehend people suspected of committing crimes.

The two new K9 officers, Maka Ihe and Kū Makani, are 27 months and 20 months old, respectively. The department says the dogs were born in Hungary and completed an intense seven-week program at Gold Coast K9 in Moorpark, California, before coming to Maui.

Both K9s are certified in narcotics and explosives detection, but their most valuable use might be their ability to help police de-escalate dangerous situations and apprehend suspects in a way that is rarely lethal.

According to MPD, the new K9s will give police officers another important non-lethal option for resolving high-risk incidents, such as locating armed or concealed individuals, while minimizing the risk for harm to officers and the public.

The announcement of the new K9 units follows the Aug. 15 shooting death of Maui Police Officer Suzanne O, who was killed in an ambush-style attack while searching a dark, rugged field for a man who had already allegedly fired gunshots at the property’s caretaker.

MPD says the dogs are being put into action immediately.

“The implementation of apprehension K9s strengthens our ability to respond effectively to high-risk situations and represents a significant step forward in our commitment to using de-escalation tactics and modern policing strategies,” Chief of Police John Pelletier said in a statement.

The chief added that MPD leadership prioritizes the safety of the public, Maui County’s police officers and suspects alike.

“These K9s will be deployed in situations where their presence can encourage a suspect’s surrender, bringing a swift and safer resolution to a volatile situation,” Pelletier said.

According to MPD, Maka Ihe and Kū Makani were chosen for their outstanding temperament, drive and intelligence.

When not working, Maka Ihe reportedly enjoys hiking, mingling with the farm animals at home and lounging around the house with his family, and Kū Makani loves playing with his canine siblings, playing fetch and going on walks.