In a bid to strengthen scientific understanding within the criminal justice system, the Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory (SFDL) at the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS), University of Karachi, hosted a comprehensive one-day forensic training session on Wednesday. The session brought together 45 participants, including judges, prosecutors, investigation officers, medico-legal experts, and faculty members from judicial academies.
The training aimed to bridge the gap between science and law by exposing participants to advanced forensic DNA techniques and their critical applications in criminal investigations.
Welcoming the attendees, Prof Dr Muhammad Raza Shah, Director of ICCBS, emphasized the growing importance of scientific evidence in tackling complex crimes and ensuring national security. Highlighting SFDL’s contributions, he praised the lab’s role in high-profile cases and emergency responses, while commending Dr Ishtiaq Ahmad Khan and his team for their dedication to advancing forensic science in Pakistan.
Dr Summaiya Syed, Police Surgeon Karachi, stressed the need for meticulous collection and preservation of evidentiary materials—particularly in sensitive cases involving sexual violence and unnatural deaths. She also called for improved documentation of medico-legal and postmortem reports.
A key highlight of the session was the discussion on the “Tripod of Justice”—a model advocating coordinated action among investigators, prosecutors, and the judiciary for fair and evidence-based outcomes.
Dr Ishtiaq, who also serves as SFDL’s Project Director, revealed that the lab has delivered forensic reports in over 9,000 cases, covering a wide range of DNA and serology matters. He underscored SFDL’s role as a hub for forensic training and capacity building.
Legal Adviser Dr Amir Hussain provided insights into the evolving role of forensic evidence in Pakistan’s criminal justice system, including recent legislative amendments concerning DNA in criminal law.
Participants toured the laboratory and observed its high-end equipment and advanced testing protocols. Many expressed admiration for SFDL’s facilities and the technical expertise demonstrated by the staff.
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The event concluded with a technical Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage directly with forensic scientists and gain deeper clarity on the integration of science into legal practice.