SFDL conducts more than 5000 DNA & serology analysis

KARACHI: The Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory (SFDL) at the University of Karachi's International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS) has begun a three-day training session for Crime Scene Unit (CSU) Officers of the Sindh Police.

The first day of the training session at the LEJ National Science Information Center was attended by 30 CSU Officers. Nonetheless, 90 Crime Scene Unit Officers will attend the three-day training sessions.

In her opening remarks, Prof. Dr Farzana, Director, ICCBS, Shaheen extended a warm welcome to the attendees on behalf of Prof. Dr M. Iqbal Choudhary, Director of the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences and General Coordinator of COMSTECH. 

She stated that SFDL frequently conducted comprehensive training sessions for the Police medicolegal, prosecution, and judicial departments. She underlined that these training sessions are tailored specifically to the demands of each stakeholder group.

She informed the attendees that more than 5000 DNA analysis cases had been completed at the state-of-the-art Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory up to that point.In his speech, Dr Ishtiaq Ahmad Khan, Director of SFDL, discussed technological advancements in forensic DNA analysis. 

He asserted that forensic DNA analysis was a crucial modern technology that had recently received great attention in most criminal and civil cases.

He further stated, "This training session will focus on collecting samples from various case scenarios, labelling them, and transporting them to the SFDL while maintaining the chain of custody."

In addition, he highlighted the establishment of a state-of-the-art laboratory for forensic DNA analysis, designed in accordance with international standards, staffed by highly skilled and trained personnel, and equipped with cutting-edge equipment. 

The Police also engaged in hands-on training at the SFDL's simulated crime scene for sample collection, labelling and packaging, and documentation. The training programme participants visited the Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory at the conclusion of the first day.