UNODC strengthens forensic services in Turkmenistan

The training introduced Turkmen forensic experts to international requirements for forensic examinations and highlighted the significance and importance of co-operation between law enforcement and others engaged at the crime scene and forensic laboratories. The training also focused on analytical methods used to identify and quantify drugs, poisons and their metabolites in biological fluids or tissues. Unreliable results in the work of forensic laboratories may lead to false interpretations and conclusions and consequently mislead the investigation and damage the professional reputation of the laboratory. As a result of the training, experts strengthened their competency in crime scene and evidence management and were introduced to best practices in related forensic processes.

Forensic laboratories play a crucial role in the criminal justice system, providing invaluable information that aids the investigation and prosecution of crime and allowing to build cases based on the physical evidence rather than on confessions and testimony. With UNODC supports, Turkmenistan’s laboratories are currently preparing for international accreditation of forensic services in line with international standards.