A Day in Forensics

Forensics, think CSI, is a growing application in the criminal justice process here and falls under the control of my Director's department. While I have virtually no scientific experience in forensics, I do understand the application of viable forensics in the investigation and prosecution of cases. Of course our understanding of this incredible science and the Afghan's capabilities/training in "criminal technique" vary significantly. Given all this, development of sustainable forensics in a country like Afghanistan is proving interesting. I personally think the coalition is pushing capabilities beyond their capacity and am working hard to change direction in this area of development.

#1 Our international forensics development group: respresented countries here are Afghanistan, Romania, Finland, Canada and the US

#2 That's the Afghan Director of Forensics, a very intelligent man and good leader. Here we're discussing the tour of his various laboratories just provided to some VIPs

#3 I was guest speaker at the Biometrics graduation... I cried a little I was so very proud of them, saw a couple of them rubbing their eyes too. I just love these people

#4 Presenting a certificate of training to one of the biometric graduates

It was a good day.

It's all about wearing a head scarf these days, the threat is higher and you can feel it in the air. I'm now down to three weeks in Afghanistan but lots of work before I depart.