Posted: Thursday, May 29, 2025. 8:58 am CST.
By Zoila Palma: Belize is taking significant steps to modernize its forensic capabilities with the recent introduction of Rapid DNA technology and the drafting of comprehensive DNA legislation.
These advancements aim to strengthen the country’s criminal justice system by reducing case backlogs, improving investigative speed, and minimizing dependence on foreign laboratories.
The National Forensic Science Service (NFSS) has now established a dedicated Rapid DNA Section equipped with an Applied Biosystems instrument, marking a milestone in Belize’s journey toward science-driven policing.
“In today’s legal landscape, the integrity, speed, and reliability of forensic investigations are pivotal to ensure fair trials, deterring crime, and delivering closure to victims and families,” said Minister of Home Affairs Kareem Musa during the national budget debate. “Over the last year, the National Forensics Science Service has solidified its status as a center of innovation and credibility. The NFSS has moved from being a support unit to a vital pillar in the criminal justice reform.”
The rollout of Belize’s first in-country Rapid DNA system now enables DNA analysis in hours rather than weeks.
Alongside this, the NFSS has also installed a second ballistic comparison microscope to enhance firearm tracing, and launched new histopathology services to support medico-legal death investigations. “What once took weeks now takes hours,” Musa noted.
Looking ahead, Musa underscored the government’s broader vision for Belize’s forensic future. “Forensics is as much about science as it is about trust. And to reinforce that trust, we are actively pursuing ISO accreditation for our Scenes of Crime Office in Belize City and our National Laboratory,” he said.
Future goals include the operationalization of rapid DNA protocols, establishment of a national DNA database, and completion of the new Scenes of Crime Field Office in Dangriga. Belize also plans to relaunch the tender for a new forensic lab and morgue, further advancing its aim to become a regional forensic science hub.
Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Belize ~ We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages. Your content is delivered instantly to thousands of users in Belize and abroad! Contact us at mаrkеtіng@brеаkіngbеlіzеnеwѕ.соm or call us at 501-612-0315.
© 2025, BreakingBelizeNews.com. Content is copyrighted and requires written permission for reprinting in online or print media. Theft of content without permission/payment is punishable by law.
The post Belize advances Forensic science with Rapid DNA testing technology appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
Posted: Thursday, May 29, 2025. 8:58 am CST. By Zoila Palma: Belize is taking significant steps to modernize its forensic capabilities with the recent introduction of
The post Belize advances Forensic science with Rapid DNA testing technology appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.