The United Nations Development Programme in Sri Lanka has handed over 17 pieces of critical equipment to strengthen the DNA laboratory of Sri Lanka's Government Analyst Department.
The support is provided under the “Ensuring Justice for Victim Survivors of SGBV in Sri Lanka” project, funded by the Government of Canada and jointly implemented with UNFPA Sri Lanka.
The equipment includes an RT-PCR machine, PCR system and Crime-lite Serology Kit, together with other technologies intended to support forensic examination and DNA analysis.
The equipment was handed over by UNDP Sri Lanka Resident Representative Azusa Kubota to Government Analyst Kamani Perera, in the presence of Justice Minister Harshana Nanayakkara, Canadian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka and the Maldives Isabelle Martin, and representatives of partner organisations.
Why the equipment matters
The equipment was procured following an assessment of existing processes in the Government Analyst Department's DNA laboratory.
Its intended purpose is to strengthen the detection, examination and profiling of biological evidence, including evidence connected with investigations into sexual and gender-based violence and other crimes.
Improved laboratory capacity can support more accurate and efficient forensic analysis and may help efforts to address existing case backlogs.
However, the handover should not be described as the establishment of a new DNA laboratory.
The Government Analyst Department already operates the laboratory; this programme is strengthening its existing capacity.
Equipment alone also cannot guarantee the elimination of forensic, investigative or court delays.