Latest news with #GeneralDepartmentofCriminalEvidence
Arab Times
21-07-2025
- Health
- Arab Times
This technology could change forensics forever — and Kuwait is leading the charge
KUWAIT CITY, July 21: Brigadier Abdul Rahim Mohammed Al‑Awadhi, Director of the Forensic Medicine Department at the General Department of Criminal Evidence (GDCE), affirmed in an interview with Al‑Anba the department's pivotal contribution to criminal investigations through precise scientific analysis. Brig. Al‑Awadhi underscored the department's decisive involvement in major criminal cases solved within record time, including the Imam Al‑Sadiq Mosque bombing, the Hawally 'monster' case involving approximately 18 child rape offenses, and the Jahra wedding tent fire that tragically claimed around 57 lives. He detailed the department's methodical approach: examining the crime scene, transporting the body to the morgue for a thorough autopsy, followed by a comprehensive medical report that scientifically clarifies the cause of death. These findings are coordinated with investigative authorities to inform legal proceedings. Highlighting future enhancements, Brig. Al‑Awadhi announced ongoing efforts to align Kuwait's forensic sciences with international standards. A key initiative includes plans to introduce a virtual autopsy—or "virtopsy"—utilizing advanced imaging like CT and MRI scans to examine bodies without surgical dissection, a non‑invasive alternative being adopted in other countries. He revealed that the department is on the verge of earning multiple international quality certifications—ISO 9001:2015 for quality management and ISO 13485:2016 for medical device standards—underscoring its commitment to meeting rigorous global benchmarks in forensic service delivery and equipment handling. The Forensic Medicine Department comprises several specialized divisions: Living Examination Department: Assesses and documents injuries in cases of assault.n Mortality Examination Department: Determines causes of death, analyzes toxins and injuries.n Pathology or Tissue Examination Department: Investigates tissue-level alterations to ascertain cause of death.n Specialized Clinics Department: Includes radiology, ophthalmology, and dentistry specialists.n Follow-up and Coordination Department: Manages administrative workflows and inter-departmental communication.n Brig. Al‑Awadhi outlined that forensic reports guide criminal investigations by accurately determining critical elements such as time and cause of death, injury patterns, links to crime scenes, and suspect identification—all based on scientific data. He further explained that the GDCE's forensic system can be mobilized for complex cases involving fires or advanced decomposition. In such instances, a multidiscipline task force applies strict protocols and coordinated analysis to deliver prompt and reliable results. Recognizing challenges such as caseload pressure, the need for precision, and confidentiality, the department has established a Quality Control Department and a Coordination Unit. It has also introduced a secure G2G messaging system to transmit forensic reports electronically and discreetly, reducing reliance on paper-based procedures. In support of digital transformation, the department is integrating services with the Ministry of Interior's 'Sahel' application. Upcoming features will allow citizens and residents to receive notifications relating to civil and medical legal processes—including appointment scheduling and case status—enhancing transparency and procedural efficiency. The department is evaluating adoption of virtopsy technology—a forensic imaging system that uses CT and MRI to simulate autopsy findings without dissection. This method has gained traction internationally due to its ability to preserve the integrity of the body and facilitate faster, non-invasive investigations—especially relevant in settings with cultural sensitivities regarding autopsies Brig. Al‑Awadhi also praised the leadership of Sheikh Fahad Al‑Yousef, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, for championing modernization of the forensic sector. He emphasized that Sheikh Al‑Yousef's support is central to the department's development — providing the latest crime detection technologies, promoting continuous professional training, and fostering integration with other Ministry sectors to ensure rapid, transparent justice. Through these efforts, Kuwait's Forensic Medicine Department is advancing toward international leadership in forensic science — enhancing its role as a crucial pillar in both the security and judicial systems.
Arab Times
20-06-2025
- Arab Times
Criminals Steal and Damage Copper Conductors in Jahra Area
KUWAIT CITY, June 20: The Deputy Public Prosecutor has ordered the registration of a felony case following a report filed by a representative of the Ministry of Electricity concerning the theft and extensive damage to high-value copper electrical conductors. The prosecutor also instructed the General Department of Criminal Evidence to dispatch technical experts to examine the crime scene and collect any forensic evidence that may assist in identifying the perpetrators. According to official details, a Kuwaiti citizen born in 1988 appeared at Al-Qashaniya Police Station, presenting a formal mandate from the Ministry of Electricity. He reported that a technical fault had been detected in the ministry's power lines, prompting a team of engineers to be dispatched to the site located on Abdali Road, at kilometer 73 in the direction of Jahra. Upon arrival, the technicians discovered a major act of theft and sabotage. Unknown individuals had stolen and vandalized copper conductors of significant length and value. Specifically, the thieves cut and damaged 280 meters of 100 mm-thick copper conductors, part of a total of 865 meters of cabling affected. Additionally, 649 meters of the same type of copper conductors were found damaged. The assailants also broke and destroyed five wooden utility poles, each 11 meters in height, along with all attached electrical components and accessories. The total market value of the stolen and damaged materials was estimated at 5,270 Kuwaiti dinars. Following the report, the Public Prosecutor's office confirmed the case would be treated as a felony. An official inspection report was filed, and criminal investigation officers have been assigned to begin a full inquiry into the incident.
Arab Times
01-05-2025
- Arab Times
KD 4,500 Worth of Cables Stolen from Mutlaa Power Station
KUWAIT CITY, May 1: The Deputy Public Prosecutor has ordered that a case involving the theft of copper cables belonging to the Ministry of Electricity be classified as a felony. He directed investigators to track down and arrest the suspects, and instructed the General Department of Criminal Evidence to send forensic technicians to the scene to gather evidence that may help identify the perpetrators. According to a security source, the case filed at the Mutlaa Police Station originated from a report by a Ministry of Electricity representative. The official reported a wiring fault at a ministry-operated station in Block N2 of the Mutlaa area. Upon inspection, it was discovered that unknown individuals had stolen twenty-eight copper cables, each 630 mm in diameter and seven meters long, with an estimated total value of KD 4,500. When questioned about surveillance at the site, the representative confirmed that there were no cameras. The incident has been registered as Case No. 30/2025.
Gulf Insider
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Gulf Insider
Kuwait Approves Use Of DNA And Biometrics Testing In Citizenship Decisions
The Kuwaiti government has issued a new ministerial resolution authorising the use of advanced scientific methods—including DNA and biometric analysis — in decisions related to the granting, revocation, confirmation, or withdrawal of Kuwaiti citizenship. Ministerial Resolution No. 678 of 2025, issued by Sheikh Fahad Al Yousef, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, outlines a regulatory framework aimed at enhancing the accuracy and integrity of citizenship procedures through modern technology. According to local media, the resolution includes the following key provisions: Scientific verification tools: The use of DNA testing and biometric data such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans will be permitted to determine eligibility for Kuwaiti nationality. The use of DNA testing and biometric data such as fingerprints, facial recognition, and iris scans will be permitted to determine eligibility for Kuwaiti nationality. Mandatory testing : Individuals under review will be required to undergo genetic and biometric testing at centres designated and certified by the Ministry of Interior. Individuals under review will be required to undergo genetic and biometric testing at centres designated and certified by the Ministry of Interior. Data confidentiality : All personal and genetic data must be treated with the utmost confidentiality. The testing process must be meticulously documented at each stage. All personal and genetic data must be treated with the utmost confidentiality. The testing process must be meticulously documented at each stage. Legal safeguards: Tests must be conducted by qualified professionals who have no personal or familial relationship with the individual concerned. Results will be assessed jointly by the General Department of Criminal Evidence and the Nationality Department, and final recommendations will be submitted to the Supreme Committee for Nationality Tests must be conducted by qualified professionals who have no personal or familial relationship with the individual concerned. Results will be assessed jointly by the General Department of Criminal Evidence and the Nationality Department, and final recommendations will be submitted to the Supreme Committee for Nationality Permissible biological samples: DNA samples may be collected from a variety of sources, including blood, saliva, hair, bone, and urine, among others. DNA samples may be collected from a variety of sources, including blood, saliva, hair, bone, and urine, among others. Oversight and supervision:The Ministry of Interior is authorised to collaborate with the Ministry of Health and other relevant bodies to ensure the implementation of proper procedures and scientific integrity. The resolution will come into effect upon its publication in the official gazette. Officials say the move reflects Kuwait's commitment to transparency, accuracy, and legal due process in matters of national identity.
Zawya
21-04-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
New Kuwaiti citizenship rules: Genetic and biometric data now compulsory
KUWAIT CITY - The Ministry of Interior has issued Ministerial Resolution No. 678 of 2025 outlining the official use of modern scientific techniques—including genetic and biometric analysis—in the process of granting, withdrawing, revoking, or confirming Kuwaiti citizenship. The resolution, issued by First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, comes after a review of Amiri Decree No. 15 of 1959, which governs the Kuwaiti Nationality Law and its subsequent amendments. The move marks a significant step toward integrating advanced technology into national identity verification processes. Key Definitions and Methods Under the resolution, several key terms are defined to standardize procedures: - Genetic fingerprint refers to the unique biological gene map that identifies individuals, derived from DNA analysis of biospecimens. - Biometric fingerprints include physical identifiers such as fingerprints, iris patterns, and facial recognition data. - Biospecimens refer to biological samples taken from individuals for identity verification and familial linkage testing. Approved Scientific Methods The resolution authorizes the use of the following modern scientific techniques in determining citizenship status: 1. Genetic fingerprinting and analysis of hereditary traits. 2. Biometric fingerprinting and analysis of biometric features. 3. Any new scientific methods developed in the future. Mandatory Participation All individuals under investigation for matters related to citizenship—whether for granting, withdrawal, loss, or revocation—are required to undergo genetic and biometric data collection as stipulated in the resolution. National Database The Ministry of Interior will maintain a secure database containing the collected genetic and biometric data. This will be used to verify identities and prevent impersonation in a precise and effective manner. The Ministry emphasized that the integration of scientific methods aims to enhance accuracy, transparency, and fairness in citizenship-related decisions. Authorized Authorities and Equipment Article 4 of the resolution states that the competent authorities responsible for conducting genetic and biometric fingerprint analysis will be designated by the Minister of Interior. Among them must be the center within the General Department of Criminal Evidence. These designated authorities must possess medically and technically approved equipment to carry out DNA and genetic trait analysis, as well as biometric fingerprint examinations, to establish or disprove paternity and lineage as required under the resolution. Use of Biometric Fingerprints Article 5 lays out the process for biometric identification, which includes fingerprinting, iris scans, facial recognition, and photographic image matching. Key provisions include: 1. Biometric fingerprints shall be collected at the General Department of Criminal Evidence, upon request from the General Department of Nationality and Travel Documents or any authority appointed by the Minister of Interior. 2. If the Department of Criminal Evidence—or any other relevant entity—has existing biometric or genetic data for a subject, it must be disclosed and forwarded to the Department of Nationality and Travel Documents. If no data exists, the subject must undergo testing within one week of the request. 3. Results from biometric fingerprint analyses or comparisons must be sent to the Department of Nationality and Travel Documents or the designated authority. 4. The Department of Nationality and Travel Documents will then prepare an official memorandum interpreting the results and recommending whether the data supports the granting, revocation, or denial of citizenship. This will be submitted to the Supreme Committee for Nationality for final action. 5. Upon request from the concerned parties or the Department of Criminal Evidence, and with the approval of the Department of Nationality and Travel Documents or the Minister's designee, biometric fingerprint tests may be repeated to verify accuracy. Genetic Fingerprinting Procedures Article 6 specifies the steps for conducting genetic fingerprint testing: 1. A permit must be obtained from the Department of Nationality or another designated authority before conducting any genetic fingerprinting for citizenship-related purposes. 2. Biological samples—such as blood, saliva, or hair—will be collected from the concerned individuals, with all collection procedures properly documented to preserve sample integrity. 3. Analyses must be performed in approved laboratories listed under Article 4. Strict confidentiality must be maintained throughout, and DNA will be extracted and compared based on established technical and medical protocols. 4. Individuals performing genetic fingerprint analysis must meet the following criteria: - Be included in a list approved by the Ministry of Interior. - Have no personal relationship (kinship, friendship, hostility, or vested interest) with the individual being tested. - Must not have a criminal record involving felonies or crimes of moral turpitude or breach of trust. - Must maintain a documented record of all tests for auditing purposes by the Ministry. - A detailed report of the results must be submitted in a sealed, confidential envelope to the General Department of Criminal Evidence. Final Reporting and Review Procedures Clause F: The General Department of Criminal Evidence is tasked with preparing a final report containing its official findings and conclusions regarding DNA test results. This report will be submitted to the General Department of Nationality and Travel Documents. Clause G: Following the receipt of the report, the General Department of Nationality and Travel Documents will draft a memorandum assessing the implications of the test results and their relevance to citizenship eligibility. This memorandum will be forwarded to the Supreme Nationality Committee for appropriate action. Clause H: If requested by the concerned parties or the examining center, and with the approval of the General Department of Nationality and Travel Documents or an authority designated by the Minister of Interior, a DNA test may be repeated to confirm the accuracy of the results. Approved Sources for DNA Testing Article 7 DNA samples may be collected from the following sources: 1. Blood 2. Semen 3. Hair root or hair strand 4. Bone 5. Saliva 6. Urine 7. Amniotic fluid from the fetus 8. Fertilized egg cells after division 9. Any body cell Chain of Custody and Documentation Article 8 All stages of DNA analysis—from sample collection and transfer to final results—must be thoroughly documented to preserve sample integrity and ensure accurate results. These records shall be securely stored at the General Department of Criminal Evidence and may be audited at any time by the Ministry of Interior to verify their security, accuracy, and confidentiality. Supervision and Oversight Article 9 The Ministry of Interior is authorized to seek the expertise of specialists from the Ministry of Health or other relevant bodies to oversee and ensure proper execution of DNA analysis procedures under the resolution's standards. Confidentiality Measures Article 10 All genetic data obtained through any scientific method under this resolution must be handled with the utmost confidentiality and privacy. Implementation and Enforcement Article 11 The Undersecretary of the Ministry is responsible for implementing this resolution, which comes into effect upon its publication in the Official Gazette. Arab Times | © Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. ( arabtimes
