PFSA gains advance DNA test capability

Scientists would now be able to test samples retrieved from used items

LAHORE:

The Punjab Forensic Science Agency (PFSA) has acquired the capability of testing deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of suspects involved in crimes through face masks, cigarette butts, used tins and bottles.

Pakistani forensic scientists are terming it as a great achievement. Earlier, the PFSA could only perform DNA tests on blood, mucus and semen retrieved from the crime scenes but now the process of identifying the culprits through DNA samples from face masks, cigarette butts and used items has become possible.

With this advanced capability the forensic agency can easily submit DNA based evidence to the court following an arrest of any suspect involved in rape, robbery, murder, terrorism, abduction or any other serious crime.

A senior officer of the Punjab Forensic Science Agency told the Express Tribune that the professional forensic experts achieved success with continuous hard work and dedication, enabling them to make it easier to obtain DNA from items available on the crime scene and extract genetic information from these.

“People involved in various crimes would get undue relief from the courts owing to the lack of evidence, but now experts can produce scientific evidence before the judges to apprehend the criminals,” he added.

Speaking to the Express Tribune, the officer said that the Punjab government would soon hold a press conference in this regard and announce the major achievement.

Moreover, the investigation officers of the entire province would be informed about this through a letter and refresher courses would be offered to all of them to train them about retrieving DNA evidence during an investigation.

The officer said that in the past, traditional investigative methods were being used for serious crimes that could be easily challenged and refuted in the court but now with this technology, the accused would not be able to disprove the evidence found at the scene.

Published in The Express Tribune, September 19^th, 2020.