Workshop on �Forensic Evidence Collection & Management

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Chemical Division

Dr.M.Kishore Kumar Reddy

Scientific Assistant

RFSL, Kurnool.

Chemical Division - Sections

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Forensic Evidence Collection & Management

I. Toxicology section

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NATURE OF POISONING CASES IN TOXICOLOGY

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Toxicology Cases-Common type of poisons involved

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Viscera samples to be collected by Medical Officers

BLOOD

URINE

Gastric lavage (stomach)

Body Fluids to be collected by Medical Officers

BODY FLUIDS

Separate viscera bottles should be properly labeled and sent for chemical examination.

1: Stomach contents 10-20 ml in plastic or glass container with preservative.

7: Skin piece along with tissue beneath

VISCERA- Packing Protocol

Stomach & Intestine

Liver & Kidney

Blood

Saline

Stained clothes/utensils/vomit materials with suspected poisons

Food materials/water samples/soft drinks etc.,

Plants materials [leaves, bark, fruit, flowers, root etc.,]

Case properties to be collected by IO from Crime Scene

Pesticide bottles

Injections /syringes/drug/medicinal remnants

Forwarding authorities letter from Medical Officer along with sample (Hospital) seal affixed (Original)

Documents to be submitted

Letter of advice along with sample (SHO) seal affixed (Original)

Forwarding authorities letter i.e., (Original)

• DSP/ACP/ASP/ above rank
• MRO/ Executive magistrate
• Judiciary

F.I.R along with Complaint letter, Detail Panchanama/Inquest, Postmortem certificate (Duplicate)

Seizure Panchanama in case of case property is seized(Duplicate)

Drunkenness certificate in case of alcohol intoxication cases(when suspect is in conscious) along with sample (Hospital) seal affixed (Original)

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Do’s for registering the case

Dos and Don’ts in Alcohol Cases:

• Drunkenness certificate should be produced.

• Blood sample collection in case of alcohol analysis the sample of minimum 5ml should be preserved either in EDTA or 1% of sodium fluoride (it prevents degradation from processing further).
• Case should be submitted as early as possible
• Proper stamping of seal clearly visible and accepted
• Improper stamping of seal, not clearly visible or distinguishable is not accepted
• When same sample requires different questionnaire (poison and blood group) then preserve sample separately.

Reasons for rejecting the case

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Don’ts/reasons for returning the case to make necessary changes

In absence of seals on the parcel/packet/container bearing case property

When the sample seal is furnished but not tallying with the seal on the parcel.

When packing is not properly done

When the sample seal is not furnished

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When the case property is not sent in complete /proper form

When the case is not forwarded by the designated authorities i.e., I) DSP/ACP/ASP/ above rank, II) MRO/ Executive magistrate, III)Judiciary

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When the case property is forwarded after a lapse of one month from the date of F.I.R without a D.O letter from the SPs/DCPs.

When questionnaire is not raised/properly asked

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Do’s & Don’ts in the packing & Sealing of samples �Proper Packing & sealing Improper Packing & sealing

With out sample seal

Proper IO & MOs sample seal

Proper & Clearly visible seals

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Do’s and Don’ts in Questionnaire

Viscera Preservation in Different Types of Deaths for analysis at FSL– With Special Considerations

Forensic Evidence Collection & Management

I1. NARCOTICS SECTION

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Classification of Major Drugs of abuse

STIMULANTS

• The drugs of this category are generally called “uppers”
• STIMULANTS excite or Stimulates the CNS but do not affect perception.
• These are also referred in the terminology of “speed”.
• E.g., Amphetamines, Methamphetamines (Speed), cocaine ,caffeine & nicotine,, etc

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HALLUCINOGENS

• These drugs can cause marked alterations in normal thought process, perceptions and moods and have hallucinogenic properties.

Ex

• Cannabis
• LSD (Lysergic Acid Diethylamide)
• Magic Mushrooms (psilocybin)
• PCP (phencyclidine)
• Mescaline

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Various forms of Cannabis

• Bhang: The leaves of cannabis are ground into a paste which can be added to foods & Drinks. It is Not Covered under NDPS.
• Ganja: Flowering & Fruiting tops with or without leaves & seeds of the plant
• Hashish (Hash ) or weed or Charas: Dried cannabis resin usually in the form of small blocks.
• Hash Oil/Weed Oil: Thick oily liquid, which is extracted from cannabis.

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Bhang In Holi

Various forms of Cannabis

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Matured Cannabis plant

Ganja

Charas

Hash Oil

Hashish

Lysergic Acid Diethyl Amide(LSD)

• LSD is manufactured from lysergic acid, a chemical derived from ergot, which is a type of fungus that grows on rye and certain type of grains.

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• In pure form, LSD is a white colour crystalline compound and has no smell. it breaks down with exposure to UV light.

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DEPRESSANTS�

• The drugs of this category are called “downers”
• Acts on Central Nervous System to suppress its vital functions and generates relaxation, a sense of well being and produces sleep.
• It includes Sedatives, Hypnotics and Narcotics.
• This group comprises all of the tranquilizing, sleep-inducing, Stress-reducing sedating substances

1. Alcoholic Beverages

2. Barbiturates.

Ex: Phenobarbital. Pentobarbital, Secobarbital

3. Benzodiazepines

Ex: Alprazolam, Diazepam,Lorazepam, Nitrazepam,Oxazepam

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Drug-Facilitated sexual assault (DFSA)

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DFSA Drugs are Used to impair resistance or memory with an intent to commit sexual assault.

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• Alcohol (Most Common)
• Benzodiazepines (e.g.,Rohypnol (Flunitrazepam), Diazepam,Lorazepam)
• Z-drugs (Zolpidem)
• GHB (gamma-hydroxybutyrate)
• Ketamine
• Antihistamines (e.g.,Diphenhydramine, Promethazine)
• Club Drugs(LSD, MDMA)

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Drug Detection Kits

• The contraband must be checked through by field-testing kit.

1.Guidelines for Seizure in NDPS cases

• The NDPS Rules 2022 specify procedures for handling, testing, and documenting seized narcotics. Ensures transparency, accuracy, and fairness in investigations and legal processes
• Effective from: 23-12-2022 (G.S.R 899(E))
• Seized contraband to be classified by physical properties and results of drug detection kit.
• Packages/containers to be weighed separately, serially numbered for identification.
• Loose NDPS substances to be packed in tamper-proof bags or containers, serially numbered and weighed.
• Classification, weighing, packaging, and numbering in the presence of Panchas and accused; signed by all parties.
• Detailed inventory to be prepared and attached to panchnama.

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2.Guidelines for Sampling in NDPS Cases

• As per NDPS Rules 2022: Sampling should be in the presence of Magistrate.

A. Seized Material in One Package

• Contents mixed thoroughly before sampling.
• Draw two samples: 'Original' and 'Duplicate'

(or Sample No.1 and 2 / A and B).

• Equal quantity must be taken for both samples.

B. Seized Material in Multiple Bags

• If packages are identical, bunch in lots : max 10

( 40 for Ganja/Charas/Hashish/Poppy Straw)

• Two representative samples per lot.
• Equal quantity taken from each package in
• a lot to create a composite sample.

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Quantity to be drawn for sampling

• In case where seized quantities is less than that required for sampling, the whole of the seized quantity may be sent.

Sampling Example-1

3. Guidelines for Packing of Evidence

• Each sample packed separately in self-lock plastic covers.
• Solid samples: Self lock Polythene cover > Paper envelope > Properly sealed.
• Liquid samples: Leak-proof bottle > Wrapped in clean cloth.
• Vegetative material: Samples in polythene bags (do not water or strip cannabis/poppy plants).
• Cannabis leaves: Pack in perforated envelopes. Mark envelopes as 'Original' and 'Duplicate' with serial number of source package.
• Indicate on Each Package:

Gross Weight: Net Weight:

Particulars of Drug: Date of Seizure:

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4. Do’s for Forwarding of Evidence to FSL

As per NDPS Rules 2022: After inventory by magistrate samples to be sent directly to APFSL/Excise Lab without delay.

• Include forwarding letter from competent authority.
• Submit Letter of Advice (LOA) with Sample seal and IO’s signature.
• Clearly specify, contraband description, net/gross weight, nature of analysis mode of packing , Messenger name in LOA.

Common Questionnaire In NDPS Cases

1. Whether the seized substance/ Contraband contains any Narcotic or Psychotropic Substance or not?

2. If yes, what type of substance it is?

(Note: If specific info is available about the Drug name then)

3. Whether it is ...................(Drug Name ) or not?

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5. Don'ts - Common Forwarding errors by IO’s

FSL may return the case because of the following errors. If

1. Time gap between Seizure date & Forwarding date are more
2. Seals are not tallying
3. Sample seal not provided
4. Messenger name not tallying
5. weight of sample drug not tallying.
6. Discrepancy in the description Case property ( Ex: colour)
7. Mode of packing in LOA not tallying.
8. Packing is not proper
9. Irrelevant questioner?
10. Sample is not sufficient for testing.
11. Testing facility is not available.

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Where to send for analysis ?

Limitations – Negative result

• Drug disintegration may leads to negative result
• Factors effecting Drug Disintegration
• Time
• Storage Temperature & atmospheric conditions
• Exposure to Light
• Improper Storage Precautions
• Other factors

1. Collection & Sampling errors

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Forensic Evidence Collection & Management

III. CHEMISTRY SECTION

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Types of cases received in Chemistry

1.FIRE AND ARSON

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• Fire is the rapid oxidation process with release of heat, light, and various reaction products.
• The FIRE TRIANGLE represents the three elements �needed for fire to occur

1. Fuel can be anything that burns — solid, liquid, or gas — like furniture, paper, kerosene, petrol, diesel, alcohol, or turpentine oil.�2. Oxygen comes from the air around us.�3. Heat is the energy that raises the fuel’s temperature until it gives off enough vapors to catch fire.

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• Arson is the crime of intentionally and maliciously setting fire to buildings, wild land areas, vehicles or other property with the intent to cause damage.

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TYPES OF FIRE

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Indicators of Arson

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Collection of Evidences

Packaging and Forwarding of Evidences:

(i) The evidence container should have the following qualities:

● Made of metal normally unused paint

cans made of tin (as shown in Figure).

● Air tight so that there is no loss due to

evaporation.

● Highly resistant to breakage, easy for

transportation.

● Prevents cross-contamination.

● Good integrity seal.

(ii) Glass container with metal cap can be used for collection of smaller amount of

sample.

(iii) Polythene envelope/bag, plastic container and paper bags should never be used for

packing exhibits in case of suspected inflammable material.

(iv) Collect two to three quarts of ash, soot and debris from point of origin of fire.

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(v) The burnt material like wood, furniture, cloth, etc., should be packed in an airtight

(vi) Liquid samples/fuel found in open bottle should be placed in an unused sealable glass

container to prevent any loss of fluid.

(vii) In case of electrical short circuit, electrical wire ends and burnt/partially burnt wires

should be kept in thermocol sheet and packed in a cardboard/plastic box.

(viii) Electrical appliances like, electric fan, heater, electric iron, air conditioner, etc., should

be packed in a cardboard box. In case of refrigerator and other big machinery

difficult to transport, ask expert to examine at crime scene.

(ix) Cast of footprint/shoeprint should be properly packed and labelled.

(x) All the exhibits should be carefully sent to FSL for analysis.

Seizure List

 (i) Prepare list of evidence material collected from the scene.

(ii) List should be signed by two public witnesses giving their full details including

permanent and temporary address.

(iii) The packets/parcels containing evidence material should be labelled giving description

of its contents (exhibits), case reference and should be signed by the IO.

Fire & Arson Physical Evidence

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Limitations in the Forensic analysis of fire Debris in �Arson& Fire accident cases

• It is not surprising that just slightly over 20% of all arson cases ever eventually find some resolution in court.
• Of all major crimes, arson has the lowest rate of conclusion.
• There is extensive destruction of the evidence by the fire and the fire-fighters. They pour water over everything which causes the loss of Physical evidence.
• Experience has shown that more arsons are started with petroleum based fire accelerants.
• Accelerants such as petrol are highly volatile liquids. They evaporate easily even at room temperature.

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Explosion & Explosives

• An explosion is a Sudden & rapid expansion in volume associated with an extreme outward release of energy, usually with the generation of high temperature, Light, Sound and release of high-pressure effect/Shattering effect (Shock & blast waves)
• Explosive is nothing but a chemical of varying nature which when subjected to suitable impulse produces an Explosion

Classification of Explosives

According to their rates of decomposition, Chemical explosives are classified as Low & High Explosives

Low Explosives

• Low explosives are known as Deflagration explosives.
• They do not show shattering effects, but have deflagration effect. i.e. high speed burning
• Explodes with a detonation velocity less than 1000 m/Sec.
• They are used as a medium to carry flame to explosive charge and in safety fuse.

Eg. Black powder, smokeless powder, flash powder. �

FUSE WIRE

High Explosives�Primary High Explosives

• High Explosives are also known as Detonating Explosives
• High explosives produce a blasting & Shattering effect.
• Explodes with a detonation velocity more than 1000 m/Sec.(Super sonic speed)
• Primary High Explosives: Most powerful & ultrasensitive to heat, shock and friction and they detonate violently instead of burning. Used in Detonators.

Eg Lead azide, lead styphnate, mercury fulminate, diazo dinitrophenol(DDNP), tetrazene, Picrates, Silver Azide, hexamethylene tirperoxide (HMTD) and triacetone triperoxide (TATP) etc.

High explosives�Secondary High Explosives

• Burn as well as detonate
• Relatively insensitive to heat, flame, and shock and usually require a primary explosive to initiate detonation.
• Secondary high explosives include boosters and main charges..� (i) Boosters: PETN/ RDX/Cyclonite� (ii) Main Charge: Dynamite, Water Gels, Emulsions, TNT,ANFO (Ammonium Nitrate & Fuel Oil),Ammonium Nitrate +RDX, PETN.

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Common terms in the field of Explosives

• Safety fuse: Is a black colored wire consisting of a mixture of a Gun powder.
• Detonating cord: Consists of a central core of an explosive called PETN.
• Detonator/Blasting caps : cylindrical copper or aluminum tubes filled with primary explosive composition used for giving initial detonation wave to main explosive …Two types -Non Electric and Electric

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IED- various types of bombs

IED- Time Bombs

Letter Bomb- book Bomb

Effects of Explosion

• Blast pressure

•Thermal/incendiary

• Fragmentation

Crime Scene - Explosive Cases

EXPLOSION SIGNATURES

• Permanent distortion of object

A) plastic deformation B) dishing of metal plates C) fractures

• Fragment attack
• Displacement of objects
• Flame & heat mark
• Effects of pressure

Explosion Signatures

• INJURY TO PERSONS
• Blast pressure wave
• Fragments injury
• Burn injury
• IDENTIFICATION OF SEAT OF EXPLOSION
• CRATER formation

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Crime Scene Explosive Cases

Physical Evidences - Bomb blast cases at SOC

Packaging and Forwarding of Evidence

Packaging and Forwarding of Evidence

• Live bombs should be defused before sending to the laboratory with the help of BD team and bomb diffusion certificate should be sent along with the diffused bomb.
• Label each container of evidence with information like FIR no./Crime no., police station, date and time of collection, place of collection, etc., along with proper numbering of containers.
• All the exhibits collected above must be sealed properly.
• All the sealed exhibits must finally be forwarded to FSL/CFSL for analysis along with sample seal.

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Crater formed due to explosion

Post explosive remnants

• Sulphuric Acid(H₂SO₄), Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) and Nitric Acid(HNO₃) are the commonly used acids in acid attack cases.
• Acids are corrosive in nature. They erode and destroy the skin tissues and may expose

or dissolve bones.

• The acids may damage eyes to the extent that the person becomes blind.
• Acid on inhalation enters the esophagus and may cause renal failure also. The victim may die due to excessive burns also.
• Treatment of burns is a long treatment involving plastic surgery in different stages and the victim suffers both from anxiety and depression.

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• Sulphuric Acid causes most severe burns followed by Nitric Acid and then by Hydrochloric Acid.

ACID ATTACK CASES

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Acid Attack cases -Types of physical evidences

Adulteration of Petroleum Products

• Adulteration is the illegal addition of substances to a product, lowering its quality for commercial gain.
• Adulteration in petroleum products (Petrol, Diesel, Kerosene, Gasoline)damages vehicle engines, shortening their lifespan.
• The government has implemented strict regulations and punishments to prevent adulteration.
• All Central/States/UTs Forensic Science Laboratories are authorized under Schedule III of Clause 8(5) of EC Act 1955 for testing of Petroleum Product Samples.

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COLOUR OF PETROLEUM PRODUCTS:

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• Q.1 Whether the above samples are adulterated or not? (For Petrol/Diesel/Kerosene)?
• Q.2. Whether the items x,y and z are same with P,Q and R or not.(For spurious items)?
• All Central/States/UTs Forensic Science Laboratories are authorized under Schedule III of Clause 8(5) of EC Act 1955 for testing of Petroleum Product Samples.
• Sample Should collect in sealed, tamper proof containers

Common Questioner in adulteration of petroleum products

HPTLC

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GC-MS

LC-MS

HPLC

GC-HSS

FT-IR

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Thank you