This division will manage, monitor, and deliver forensic services and expertise to the field divisions. It will consist of the following units:
Forensic Chemistry Unit
- Utilise a variety of techniques to analyse evidence, including substances such as drugs, toxins, and trace materials like fibres, paint, and glass;
- Interpret the results for law enforcement and the judiciary;
- Provide expert testimony in a court of law.
- Stay informed and regularly update yourself on scientific advancements, considering the continuous emergence of new techniques and technologies for evidence analysis; and
- Carry out any other assigned task.
DNA Unit
- Collect, label, and store biological samples (such as blood, semen, saliva, hair, and tissues) from crime scenes or individuals involved in criminal investigations;
- Carry out DNA extraction and profiling;
- Maintain and update the DNA database.
- Analyse and interpret DNA profiles to determine the statistical significance of matches or exclusions;
- Offer professional testimony;
- Implement and follow rigorous quality control and quality assurance protocols to ensure the accuracy and reliability of DNA analysis results;
- Keep up to date with advancements in DNA analysis technology and methodologies.
- Train and educate law enforcement personnel and forensic staff on the professional collection and handling of evidence, and explain the significance of DNA evidence in criminal cases investigations;
- Revisit and review unsolved or cold cases to potentially identify new leads or suspects using advanced DNA technology.
- Collaborate with other forensic units, law enforcement agencies, and external laboratories to share information and support complex investigations; and
- Perform any additional assigned task.
Ballistics Unit
- Receive and analyse the evidence from the crime scenes, such as bullets, shell casings, and firearms;
- Determine the type of firearm used in a crime.
- Establish connections between bullets and shell casings and the specific firearms used;
- Establish the distance and angle from which a shot was discharged;
- Reconstruct the circumstances of crime scenes;
- Present expert evidence in court proceedings;
- Investigate and develop innovative technologies to improve the precision and effectiveness of ballistic investigation; and
- Perform any other assigned task.
Document Examination Unit
- Examine documents to reveal indications of forgery, such as inconsistencies in handwriting, erasures, or alterations;
- Assess handwriting samples to determine if they have a shared authorship;
- Analyse the ink and paper to determine their age, origin, and authenticity;
- Restore documents that have been damaged or altered.
- Offer expert testimony in a court of law when necessary; and
- Perform any additional assigned task.
Cyber Crime Unit
- Investigate cybercrime cases according to the instructions.
- Assist the police departments in investigating cyber-crime occurring within their jurisdiction;
- Assist in the investigation by retrieving data from mobile phones, computers, and storage devices, among others.
- Stay abreast of advancements in cybercrime and digital forensic technology and methodologies. and
- Carry out any other assigned task.
Fingerprints Unit
- Examine, classify, verify, and index fingerprints.
- Compare fingerprints against established fingerprint databases, such as the Automated Fingerprint Identification System (AFIS).
- Ascertain whether there are matches or possible matches to known individuals;
- Process and enhance latent fingerprints (invisible or partial prints left at crime scenes) using a range of techniques, including chemical treatments, powders, and alternative light sources;
- Keep a record of fingerprints for ex-convicts, criminals, and suspects;
- Verify individual identities through fingerprint comparisons, assisting law enforcement agencies in establishing connections between suspects and crime scenes.
- Give expert evidence in court
- Train law enforcement officers and forensic analysts in correct fingerprint collection, preservation, and analysis techniques.
- Implement quality control and assurance measures to ensure the accuracy and reliability of fingerprint analysis;
- Ensure the confidentiality and integrity of the fingerprint discipline;
- Stay updated on advancements in fingerprint technology and forensic analysis methodologies;
- Collaborate with other forensic units, investigators, and law enforcement agencies to exchange information and contribute to complex matters investigations; and
- Carry out any other assigned task.
