DNA UNIT

Compares DNA profiles of criminal suspects to DNA evidence obtained from victims and crime scenes in order to determine the likelihood of their involvement in the crime. We also conduct genetic testing for forensic research and to establish identities of unidentified persons.

The DNA Unit of the Biology Department conducts forensic DNA analysis on evidentiary material such as hair, skin, semen, blood, tissue, bone other substances containing biological evidence, which may have originated from suspects, victims and crime scenes. The evidentiary material is submitted to the DNA Unit post body fluid identification done in the Serology Unit. The DNA analyses done are governed by a series of quality assurance standards that ensures the tests performed are accurate and the results obtained are of the highest quality.

National DNA Register

The DNA Evidence Act, passed on February 17, 2016 provides the legal framework for the operation and management of the national DNA database. DNA profiles entered into the database can be compared between suspects, convicts, victims and crime scenes. This facility has the potential to bring more criminals to justice and provide a powerful deterrent to would be offenders.