Role of forensic sciences in criminal investigations focus of international symposium at INTERPOL

٨ أكتوبر، ٢٠١٠

LYON, France – The advancement and expansion of forensic sciences in criminal investigations was the focus of the 16th International Forensic Sciences Symposium which closed today at INTERPOL’s General Secretariat headquarters in Lyon.

The four-day (5-8 October) forum for forensic laboratory managers brought together more than 170 forensic scientists, investigators and researchers from more than 50 INTERPOL member countries to discuss the latest forensic sciences techniques, applications and best practices.

The triennial event aims to facilitate the presentation of advances made in scientific methods over the previous three years, the exchange of information to enhance scientific methods in criminal investigation and the administration of justice, the discussion of problem areas encountered by member countries and potential solutions proposed, and the pooling of ideas for progress in the future.

Addressing the symposium earlier, INTERPOL Secretary General Ronald K. Noble said that as the threats which forensics sciences tried to counter in the field became increasingly global, INTERPOL stood as a global point of reference thanks to its global forensic databases, its role as a unique forum for forensic managers, and in its ability to provide its 188 member countries solutions or access to a wide range of worldwide expertise to discuss current challenges faced by professionals.

“As technology and innovation shape not only our capabilities, but also the threats we seek to counter, there is little doubt that the international forensic science community must have access to the latest advancement in techniques, protocols and tools, in order to enhance its effectiveness as a whole and harmonize its standards across national borders,” added Mr Noble.

In this respect, the head of the world police body said INTERPOL would soon propose to its member countries the establishment of a global facility in Singapore – the INTERPOL Global Complex – which will focus among others on research and capacity building on forensics and identification techniques, embedded in a major international innovation hub.