Belize Advances Forensic Science

Belize is stepping up its crime-fighting efforts with a game-changing advancement in forensic technology. The National Forensic Science Service (NFSS). The Belize National Forensic Science Service (NFSS) has announced the installation of a cutting-edge Applied Biosystems RapidHIT ID instrument in its new Rapid DNA Section.

“This cutting-edge technology will allow for in-country rapid DNA testing for crime scene samples, human remains, and disaster victim identification for urgently needed investigative or identification needs” in as little as 90 minutes, NFSS stated. “This investment of taxpayers’ dollars into the expansion of the NFSS’s scope represents a solid commitment by the Government of Belize in advancing the nation’s forensic investigative capacity.”

According to the NFSS, streamlining identification processes, the technology frees up resources for more complex cases like sexual assault evidence or in-depth crime scene investigations and will even ease case backlogs and free up resources for more complex investigations.

It is set to be fully operational in the next three months.