13/08/2024
Specialists from the Iraqi police work with the Spanish National Police to exchange knowledge on how to work a crime scene
59 Iraqi police specialists worked side by side with the Spanish National Police to strengthen their knowledge in forensic examination of crime scenes.
The activity was organised by the European project CT Just with the aim of strengthening the training of Iraqi police forces and promoting compliance with international standards in forensic science.
The training provided an in-depth focus on the methodology of crime scene evidence collection, preservation and analysis. Iraqi officers were able to participate in both theoretical and practical sessions on planning and recovering evidence at crime scenes and attacks, securing evidence, and advanced photography and video techniques. The course also included modules on the preparation of expert reports, freehand sketches of crime scenes, and the recognition and analysis of visible and non-visible evidence, with a special focus on ballistics and biological traces.
Participants were able to engage in real case studies, crime scene simulations and use specialised equ
ipment. Sessions covered fundamental aspects of crime scene management, including basic principles, advanced forensic photography techniques and the collection and preservation of biological, ballistic and fingerprint evidence.
Through this training, Iraqi police officers have been able to improve their practical skills and knowledge, gaining experience in crime scene management, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), evidence collection and documentation techniques. And training sessions in forensic photography, videography and drawing have enhanced participants’ ability to document crime scenes thoroughly and accurately, applying globally recognised international standards.
The activity has underlined the importance of practical and technical training, ensuring adherence to human rights and the international rule of law, while keeping pace with evolving technologies in a context of professional cross-fertilisation. Results have been achieved through case studies and discussions that have emphasised the importance of forensic methodologies and crime scene management techniques, while respecting human rights and privacy. This alignment with international standards ensures the admissibility of evidence obtained under forensic investigation techniques, paving a common way forward.
In conclusion, the activity has reinforced the critical importance of specialised forensic police training in the counter-terrorism framework for Iraq. International collaboration and adherence to international legal and human rights standards to enhance counter-terrorism efforts. This holistic, informed and collaborative approach ensures that security force operations, especially the collection of forensic evidence, are both effective and comply with international standards and human rights.
