Forensic Chemistry Laboratory Section

The Section will perform the following activities:-

• Analyse seized materials such as cannabis saliva, chat, and heroin, cocaine in order to identify the type of drug and determine the amount of drug submitted for examination;
• Determine the purity of the drug(s), compare and confirm the identity of drug(s);
• Analyse powders, tablets and capsules to determine the presence or absence of drugs of abuse for criminal cases;
• Analyse liquids and liquid formulations to determine the presence or absence of drugs of abuse for criminal cases;
• Analyse foodstuffs to determine the presence or absence of drugs of abuse for criminal cases;
• Analyse biological specimens such as urine, sweats, saliva, hair, and blood in order to determine the presence or absence of drugs of abuse for criminal and non-criminal cases;
• Quantify the confirmed drug(s) for criminal and non-criminal cases;
• Analyse fire debris in order to determine whether or not an accelerant has been used deliberately set a fire and whether or not an accelerant has been found on an individual;
• Analyse explosives in order to determine the chemical composition and type of explosives;
• Analyse explosion and explosive residues in order to determine the chemical composition and source of explosion;
• Analyse gunpowder residues in order to determine the nature of propellant materials of the ammunition fired;
• Analyse glass to compare the refractive indices of glass from the scene with the suspected objects;
• Analyse soil debris and dusts to determine the soil texture to link a particular incident to the suspect;
• Analyse paints, flakes and smears to determine the paint layers,colours and chemical composition for comparison of samples from the scene with the genuine object;
• Analyse counterfeit and forgery samples in order to confirm originality of documents and currencies;
• Provide expert witness before the court of law;
• Sensitize stakeholders on sampling techniques and sample management;
• Carry out research activities on all matters related to Forensic Chemistry;
• Carry out analysis on any matter of national or public interest related to Forensic Chemistry;
• Develop, validate and review laboratory methods;
• Prepare, implement and review Standard Operating Procedures.
• Carry out disposal of biological specimens and laboratory wastes.
• Participate in Proficient testing schemes to facilitate accreditation of laboratory methods; and
• Provide advisory services on any matter related to ForensicChemistry.

This Section will be led by a Manager.