SFDL at ICCBS Solves 8000 DNA and Serology Cases

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The Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory (SFDL), located at the University of Karachi (UoK), has achieved a significant milestone by successfully resolving over 8,000 DNA and serology cases, according to recent announcements made during a specialized training session at the International Center for Chemical and Biological Sciences (ICCBS).

Established with support from the Sindh Health Department, SFDL is the only ISO 17025 certified laboratory in Pakistan providing comprehensive DNA and serology services within the Sindh province. Since its inception, the lab has played a pivotal role in enhancing the criminal justice system, contributing to a remarkable increase in the conviction rate from 4 percent to 15 percent in the province.

This progress was highlighted by Prof Dr Farzana Shaheen, Director of ICCBS, during the inaugural ceremony of the one-day training on “Utility of Forensic DNA in Disaster Management and the Criminal Justice System” at the Prof Salimuzzaman Siddiqui Auditorium, ICCBS. She underscored the laboratory’s contribution not only to routine DNA forensics but also in research that aims to keep the facility at the forefront of global forensic advancements.

The training event was attended by officials from the armed forces, Sindh Police, law enforcement agencies, rescue services, medico-legal, and prosecution departments. Prof Shaheen praised the SFDL team, particularly Dr Ishtiaq Ahmad Khan, the Project Director and in-charge of SFDL, for their dedication in organizing the training. She also expressed gratitude to key partners, including Police Surgeon Karachi Dr Summaiya Syed and Amir Hasan, Director of the Shanakht Project at the Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC).

Dr Summaiya Syed, in her address, highlighted SFDL’s crucial role in addressing sexual violence cases in Sindh. She pointed out that the laboratory’s efforts have led to a significant improvement in the conviction rates for such cases, underscoring the importance of continuous training for all criminal justice actors in the province. She emphasized that DNA evidence is essential, particularly in prosecuting sexual assault cases, and called for more training sessions to strengthen medico-legal practices.

During the event, Dr Ishtiaq Ahmad provided a detailed presentation on the progress and future goals of SFDL. He reiterated the lab’s commitment to staying aligned with the latest advancements in forensic DNA research, positioning itself as a leader in the field both nationally and globally.

Amir Hasan, in his remarks, stressed the importance of institutional coordination to enhance the criminal justice system. The event concluded with a panel discussion featuring AIG Investigation Zulfiqar Ali Mehar, Dr Summaiya Syed, Amir Hasan, and Dr Ishtiaq Ahmad, where the need for continuous professional development was echoed by all participants.

AIG Investigation Zulfiqar Mahar commended SFDL for its efforts in fostering collaboration among various institutions and expressed confidence that the training session would further enhance the professionalism of the participants.

The Sindh Forensic DNA and Serology Laboratory continues to be a cornerstone in strengthening the criminal justice system in Sindh, providing vital services that not only solve cases but also contribute to higher conviction rates, ultimately enhancing public trust in law enforcement and judicial processes.