Tribute to K9 Rolo: CRPF Honors Fallen Canine Hero in Sukma
Farewell to K9 Rolo
On Friday, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) held a solemn farewell for K9 Rolo, a member of the 228 Battalion, in Sukma, Chhattisgarh. The two-year-old Belgian Shepherd tragically lost his life after being attacked by a swarm of bees during a significant anti-Naxal operation in the Karegutla hills, located along the Chhattisgarh-Telangana border.
Details of K9 Rolo's Service
Rolo, a Belgian Malinois, celebrated his second birthday last month. He was part of a 21-day operation conducted by the CRPF and Chhattisgarh police in the Karegutla hills. Trained at the CRPF Dog Breeding and Training School in Bengaluru, Rolo joined the anti-Naxal duties with the 228 Battalion in April 2024.
The Incident
During a search mission, Rolo was unexpectedly attacked by a swarm of bees. His handlers attempted to shield him with a plastic sheet, but the bees managed to penetrate and continued their assault. Rolo was declared dead on April 27, 2025, with the cause attributed to anaphylactic shock from approximately 200 bee stings.
About K9 Rolo
K9 Rolo was born on April 5, 2023, and was trained in infantry patrolling, explosive detection, and attack maneuvers. He was deployed for anti-Naxal operations in April 2024. During a special operation, Rolo and his fellow soldiers were caught off guard by a massive swarm of bees.
Tragic Outcome
As a result of the bee stings, Rolo lost consciousness and required immediate medical evacuation. Despite emergency treatment from his handlers, he succumbed to his injuries en route, and a veterinarian later confirmed his death.
Operation Black Forest
In a bid to eradicate Naxalism, the security forces have launched 'Operation Black Forest' aimed at dismantling Naxal strongholds near the Karegutla hills by March 26, 2026. This extensive operation, conducted from April 21 to May 11, resulted in the elimination of 31 Naxalites with a bounty of ₹1.72 crore.
Final Tribute
#WATCH | CRPF personnel conduct last rites of K9 Rolo of 228 Bn in Sukma district of Chhattisgarh. The 2-year-old Rolo was declared dead on 27 April 2025, with the cause of death being anaphylactic shock following 200 bee stings.
— Media Channel (@MediaChannel) May 16, 2025
Rolo and her handler were attacked by a swarm of… pic.twitter.com/qepVCLmcz9