The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Regional Office for Afghanistan, Central Asia, Iran and Pakistan, in cooperation with the Main Expert and Criminalistics Centre of the Ministry of Internal Affairs, successfully organized a specialized training course on "Ballistic Examination of Firearms and Their Components" in Tashkent.
This training was part of the UNODC initiative “Improving Forensic Capacities in Uzbekistan - Phase III” funded by the of the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), and aimed to strengthen the expertise of ballistic laboratory specialists from key law enforcement and forensic institutions in Uzbekistan. The intensive five-day course, held from 2 to 6 December 2024, covered a comprehensive range of topics designed to enhance the participants' skills and knowledge in ballistic analysis.
Theoretical Lectures: Delivered by international experts, these sessions provided a deep understanding of ballistic analysis, covering the latest advancements and methodologies.
Practical Laboratory Sessions: Hands-on training in forensic laboratories allowed participants to apply theoretical knowledge and refine their analytical techniques.
Field Workshops: Real-life practice at shooting ranges and forensic institutions enabled participants to apply their skills in simulated scenarios, enhancing their ability to handle real-world situations.
The Ballistic Examination Training Course provided forensic experts with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for effective ballistic examinations. The blend of theory and practice ensured that participants are better equipped to handle ballistic evidence in their professional roles, contributing to advancing forensic capabilities in law enforcement agencies.
By enhancing the capabilities of these key institutions, UNODC aims to contribute to improved criminal investigations and to a more effective and fair criminal justice system in Uzbekistan. This initiative underscores the importance of building strong forensic capacities to effectively combat crime and ensure justice.
Since 2017, UNODC has been working closely with forensic science institutions of Uzbekistan to enhance their capacity in various forensic disciplines such as analysis of illicit drugs and precursors, biological materials (DNA), firearms and its components, digital evidence, audio and phonographic exhibits, questioned documents and crime scene investigation. This collaboration aims to align Uzbek forensic practices with international standards and best practices.
