The State of Forensic Science in Bangladesh: Challenges and Opportunities.

Forensic science plays a crucial role in solving crimes by using scientific methods to gather and analyse evidence. In Bangladesh, forensic science has made some strides, but several limitations hinder its full potential. While recent advancements in forensic technology and techniques are encouraging, challenges related to resources, training, and infrastructure still impede progress. In this blog, we will explore the current state of forensic science in Bangladesh, highlight global advances, and propose steps to overcome existing obstacles.

Globally, forensic science is advancing rapidly, with new techniques making investigations more efficient and precise. Some of the most cutting-edge developments in the field include:

Non-Surgical Post-mortem Techniques

A new minimally invasive post-mortem technique has been developed by forensic pathologists and radiologists to determine the cause of death using a small incision and a CT scan. This method allows for the determination of the cause of death in up to 80% of cases. It’s particularly useful in cases of natural or unnatural deaths, and in mass fatalities where traditional autopsies may not be feasible.

Condom Lubricant Detection in Sexual Offense Cases

Offenders are increasingly using condoms to avoid leaving behind DNA evidence. However, forensic researchers have developed a technique using MALDI-MSI (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Mass Spectrometry Imaging) to detect condom lubricant on fingerprints left at crime scenes. This method adds another layer of evidence collection in sexual assault cases, ensuring that even when DNA is not available, offenders can still be identified through other forensic means.

Fingerprint Analysis for Smoking Detection

Scientists have developed a method to detect chemicals from cigarette smoke in fingerprints. By applying gold nanoparticles and antibodies that bind to nicotine residues (such as cotinine, a metabolite of nicotine), investigators can detect whether a suspect has recently been smoking. This technique adds value to fingerprint analysis by linking suspects to additional behaviors, helping to build a stronger case.

XStat Syringe for Gunshot Wounds

A new battlefield innovation, the XStat Syringe, injects small sponges into gunshot wounds. These sponges expand upon contact with blood, sealing the wound and providing an immediate hemostatic effect. This technology, while designed for military use, could also prove useful in forensic investigations involving violent crimes where rapid medical intervention is required to preserve a suspect or victim for evidence gathering.

Recent Advances in Forensic Science in Bangladesh

Bangladesh has made strides in forensic science, particularly within the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). Key advancements include:

CID Forensic Labs

Bangladesh’s CID Forensic Division conducts expert investigations involving handwriting analysis, forgery, ballistics, and DNA evidence. The division operates five labs: the Forensic Lab, Chemical Lab, IT Crime Lab, Forensic Training Institute (FTI), and the DNA Lab. These labs utilize advanced tools, including fingerprint comparators, ultraviolet light sources, and modern microscopes.

National Forensic DNA Profiling Laboratory (NFDPL)

Located at Dhaka Medical College, the NFDPL has revolutionized the use of DNA evidence in criminal cases, particularly in sexual assault and homicide investigations. The lab’s contribution has significantly improved the accuracy of investigations and marks a vital step forward for forensic science in Bangladesh.

Polygraph Tests, Brain Mapping, and Narco Analysis

Though still in the early stages of adoption, Bangladesh has begun exploring the use of polygraph tests, brain mapping, and narco analysis in criminal investigations. While common in countries like the United States and India, these methods remain underutilized in Bangladesh.

• Polygraph Testing measures physiological responses like heart rate, breathing, and skin conductivity to assess whether a suspect is telling the truth. While not always admissible in court, polygraphs can help investigators identify inconsistencies in suspects’ stories.
• Brain Mapping (Brain Fingerprinting) uses EEG technology to measure brainwave responses to crime-related stimuli, helping determine whether specific information is stored in a suspect’s brain. This technique could offer valuable insights, especially in complex cases where witness testimonies are unreliable.
• Narco Analysis involves administering sodium pentothal to place suspects in a semi-conscious state, making them more likely to disclose truthful information. While controversial, narco analysis has the potential to aid investigations when other interrogation methods fail

Challenges Facing Forensic Science in Bangladesh

Despite recent improvements, Bangladesh’s forensic science sector still faces several critical challenges:

Limited Resources and Expertise

Most forensic resources remain concentrated in urban areas, leaving rural and suburban regions underserved. Law enforcement officers in these areas often lack training in evidence collection and preservation, leading to compromised investigations. Forensic labs also suffer from outdated equipment and a shortage of skilled personnel, making it difficult to handle complex cases.

Gaps in the Medico-Legal System

Forensic pathologists in Bangladesh often bear the responsibility of determining the manner of death, a task typically handled by legal officials in many other countries. With civil surgeons overseeing autopsies but lacking specialized training in forensic pathology, thousands of deaths go undiagnosed each year.

Issues in Investigating Sexual Abuse Cases

Sexual abuse cases in Bangladesh pose a significant challenge. Evidence often gets mishandled or ignored due to incompetence or deliberate negligence. Corruption and bureaucratic delays further hinder investigations, resulting in delayed or incomplete justice for victims.

Opportunities for Improvement

Bangladesh can take several steps to strengthen its forensic science capabilities:

Investing in Training and Education

The country needs to invest heavily in training law enforcement officers, forensic experts, and medical professionals. Expanding programs at the Forensic Training Institute (FTI) and partnering with international organizations can help close the expertise gap and improve forensic investigations.

Expanding Forensic Infrastructure

Bangladesh should establish forensic labs in all eight divisions and Chief Examiner’s offices in every district to ensure that forensic services are available nationwide. This expansion would ensure that even remote areas have access to proper evidence collection and analysis.

Enhancing Collaboration Between Ministries

Improving coordination between the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Home Affairs is essential for better forensic services, particularly in medico-legal investigations. Establishing a separate directorate for medico-legal services could streamline operations and improve efficiency.

Recommendations for the Future

Increase Public Awareness: Raising awareness about the importance of forensic science can push policymakers to allocate more resources to the sector.

Strengthen Legal and Ethical Frameworks: As Bangladesh adopts advanced forensic techniques like brain mapping and narco analysis, it must develop a legal and ethical framework to ensure responsible and transparent use of these methods.

Foster International Collaboration: Collaborating with global forensic bodies can bring new techniques and technologies to Bangladesh, helping modernize the country’s forensic science infrastructure and training programs.

Conclusion

Forensic science in Bangladesh has made some progress, with advancements in CID labs and the establishment of the National Forensic DNA Profiling Laboratory. However, challenges such as inadequate resources, insufficient training, and gaps in the medico-legal system continue to limit its potential. By investing in education, expanding forensic infrastructure, and fostering international collaboration, Bangladesh can significantly enhance its forensic capabilities. These improvements will lead to more reliable investigations, better protection of human rights, and a stronger justice system.

FAQs

1. What is the role of polygraph tests in Bangladesh’s forensic investigations?

   Polygraph tests, though not widely used, could help identify inconsistencies in suspects’ statements by measuring physiological responses like heart rate and skin conductivity during questioning.

2. How does brain mapping work, and how could it be useful in Bangladesh?

   Brain mapping (or brain fingerprinting) measures brainwave responses to crime-related stimuli. It could be useful in Bangladesh for complex investigations where witness testimonies are unreliable.

3. What is narco analysis, and why is it controversial?

   Narco analysis involves administering drugs to suspects to lower their inhibitions and prompt truthful responses. It’s controversial because of concerns over ethics, human rights, and admissibility in court.

4. What are the key forensic challenges in Bangladesh?

   Key challenges include a lack of resources, inadequate training, deficiencies in rural areas, and shortcomings in the medico-legal system, particularly in handling sexual abuse cases.

5. How has Bangladesh progressed in forensic science?

   The establishment of CID forensic labs and the National Forensic DNA Profiling Laboratory has been significant in improving forensic investigations, especially in serious cases like homicide and sexual assault.

6.Why is public awareness important for forensic science?

   Public awareness can drive government policies to invest more in forensic science, ensuring better legal outcomes and a more transparent justice system.