How are water buffalo used by the military police on Marajo?

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Water Buffalo Serve as Patrol Animals for Military Police on Marajo Island

Military police in Soure, Marajo Island, utilize water buffalo as their primary patrol animals, a practice established approximately 30 years ago. Heavily armed officers are equipped with specially adapted seats mounted on the buffalo's backs to navigate the challenging terrain of the island. This unique approach was necessitated by the seasonal flooding of the island's fields, which renders conventional transport methods impractical.
Accessing Flooded Terrain

The establishment of buffalo patrols by the military police in Soure was a direct response to the environmental conditions on Marajo Island. During the rainy season, vast areas of the island become flooded, making it difficult for officers to conduct patrols using horses or motorcycles. The water buffalo, known for their swimming capabilities and ability to traverse muddy environments, provided a viable solution for maintaining law enforcement presence in these inaccessible areas.
Navigating Mangroves and Mud

Water buffalo possess a unique advantage in navigating the muddy mangroves that characterize Marajo Island, particularly during the wet season. Reports indicate that in these specific conditions, the buffalo can achieve speeds that surpass those of horses or motorcycles. This capability allows the military police to effectively patrol and respond to incidents across a wider range of the island's diverse and often challenging landscape.
Rigorous Training for Officers

The deployment of water buffalo as patrol animals necessitates extensive training for the military police officers involved. It requires a significant commitment, with officers undergoing many months of rigorous instruction to learn how to effectively control and manage these powerful animals. This specialized training ensures that officers can operate safely and efficiently while mounted on the buffalo, maintaining operational readiness despite the unconventional nature of their mounts.

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How are water buffalo used by the military police on Marajo?

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