Forensic Chemistry: Identifying Evidence in Girl Child and Women Sexual Assault Cases in Nigeria

In the shadow of justice, forensic chemistry stands as a beacon of truth, wielding its tools to uncover hidden narratives in sexual assault cases. This scientific approach not only strengthens the judicial process but also offers a glimmer of hope to survivors, affirming that their voices can be heard and validated through scientific evidence.

The Importance of Forensic Chemistry in Sexual Assault Cases

Forensic chemistry involves the application of chemical principles to analyze crime scene evidence. In sexual assault investigations, the detection of biological traces—such as semen, blood, saliva, and skin cells—can provide pivotal evidence. These biological markers are often crucial in confirming the occurrence of an assault, identifying the perpetrator, and linking them to the victim. In a country like Nigeria, where sexual assault is a pervasive issue and many cases go unreported or are mishandled, forensic chemistry offers an objective and reliable means of pursuing justice.

Techniques in Forensic Chemistry for Detecting Biological Traces

DNA Analysis: DNA analysis is a powerful tool for identifying individuals and Perhaps the most well-known tool in forensic chemistry.  By extracting and analyzing biological samples such as blood, semen, or saliva, forensic experts can match DNA found at the crime scene with that of a suspect, providing irrefutable evidence of their presence.

Serology: This branch focuses on the detection and identification of bodily fluids. Forensic serologists use various tests to identify the presence of blood, semen, and saliva. Advanced serological techniques can even determine the origin   of these fluids, such as distinguishing between human and animal blood.

Presumptive Tests: These initial tests quickly indicate the possible presence of specific substances.  For example, the Kastle-Meyer test can identify blood, while the acid phosphatase test is used to detect semen.  Although presumptive tests are not definitive, they guide further, more specific analyses.

Microscopy Examination: Microscopic examination of biological samples can reveal important details, such as the presence of sperm cells or epithelial cells. These findings can corroborate other evidence and provide additional context to the investigation.

The Process of Detecting Biological Traces

Evidence Collection: The first and perhaps most critical step is the proper collection of evidence from the crime scene. This includes swabs from the victim’s body, clothing, and surrounding areas. The Forensic team handle and preserve the collected samples carefully to prevent contamination.

Laboratory Analysis: Collected samples are then analyzed in a forensic laboratory. Here, chemists employ various techniques to isolate and identify biological traces. This step requires precision and expertise, as the results form the backbone of the forensic investigation.

Interpretation of Results: Forensic chemists interpret the results of their analyses, comparing them against known standards and databases. This step involves a deep understanding of chemical properties and forensic methodologies to draw accurate conclusions.

Reporting and Testimony:  The findings are compiled into a detailed report, which forensic experts may present in court. Their testimony helps explain the methods and significance of the evidence to ensure that it is understood and properly considered in the judicial process.

Challenges in Forensic Chemistry in Nigeria

Despite its critical importance, forensic chemistry in Nigeria faces several challenges:

Resource Limitations:  Many forensic laboratories in Nigeria are underfunded and lack modern equipment. This limitation hampers the ability to conduct thorough and timely analyses.

Training and Expertise: There is a shortage of trained forensic chemists and technicians. Enhancing educational and training programs is essential to building a skilled workforce capable of handling complex forensic investigations.

Cultural and Social Barriers:  Societal stigma and fear of retaliation often prevent victims from reporting sexual assaults. Additionally, there may be resistance to relying on scientific evidence over traditional investigative methods.

The Impact of Forensic Chemistry on Sexual Assault Investigations

Despite these challenges, the application of forensic chemistry in sexual assault investigations has the potential to revolutionize the Nigerian justice system by:

Overcoming Societal Barriers: One of the significant challenges in addressing sexual assault cases in Nigeria is the societal stigma attached to victims. Many girl children and women are reluctant to come forward due to fear of shame, retaliation, or disbelief.  Forensic chemistry provides a way to substantiate their claims without relying solely on personal testimony, thus encouraging more victims to seek justice.

Strengthening Law Enforcement: By equipping law enforcement agencies with the tools and training necessary to conduct forensic analyses, Nigeria can improve its capacity to solve sexual assault cases effectively. This scientific approach can complement traditional investigative methods, leading to more comprehensive and accurate outcomes.

Enhancing Judicial Outcomes: The objective nature of forensic chemical evidence can enhance the fairness and accuracy of judicial outcomes. By providing clear, scientific evidence, forensic chemistry helps ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and that justice is served for victims.

The Power of Forensic Chemistry

Consider the following hypothetical cases to illustrate the impact of forensic chemistry:

Case 1:  A Breakthrough in Identification

A young woman reports a sexual assault, but the perpetrator is unknown. Forensic chemists collect samples from the victim and the crime scene. DNA analysis reveals a match with a suspect already in the criminal database for a previous offense. The scientific evidence leads to the arrest and conviction of the perpetrator, providing justice for the victim and preventing future assaults.

 Case 2: Corroborating Victim Testimony

A girl is assaulted, and her attacker claims consent. Forensic chemists detect semen and epithelial cells on the victim, which match the suspect’s DNA.  Additionally, toxicological analysis finds traces of a sedative in the victim’s system, supporting her account of being drugged. The comprehensive forensic evidence corroborates her testimony, leading to a conviction.

The Future of Forensic Chemistry in Nigeria

The future of forensic chemistry in Nigeria is bright, with the potential to significantly impact the justice system. By investing in modern forensic laboratories, training skilled personnel, and fostering collaboration between law enforcement and forensic experts, Nigeria can build a robust system capable of handling complex forensic investigations. This will lead to:

Building Public Trust: Transparent and scientifically sound investigations can build public trust in the justice system. When people see that crimes are solved based on indisputable evidence, their confidence in law enforcement and the judicial process is strengthened.

Preventing Future Crimes: By creating a comprehensive database of DNA profiles from convicted offenders and unsolved cases, Nigeria can identify repeat offenders more quickly and accurately. This approach serves as a deterrent and helps prevent future crimes by removing serial offenders from society.

Empowering Victims: By ensuring that every sexual assault case is thoroughly investigated using forensic methodologies, Nigeria can send a strong message to victims: their voices matter, and justice is within reach. This empowerment can lead to increased reporting of cases and a gradual shift in societal attitudes towards gender-based violence.

Conclusion

Forensic chemistry stands as a vital tool in the fight against sexual assault in Nigeria, offering a path to justice for survivors through the meticulous detection and analysis of biological traces. Despite the challenges, the potential benefits are profound: empowering victims, enhancing law enforcement capabilities, and ensuring fair and accurate judicial outcomes. By embracing and advancing forensic chemistry, Nigeria can make significant strides towards a safer and more just society, where girl child and women voice is heard, and every crime is answered.