CHIEF GOVERNMENT CHEMIST

Welcome to the Government Chemist Laboratory Authority (GCLA),your number one centre for laboratory analysis of samples/exhibits related to Forensic Sciences in order to facilitate forensic investigations and hence assurance of justice and rule of law,Read More>>

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.

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