Benghazi – Dr. Khaled Al-Maqsabi is a forensic medicine and toxicology consultant. He reviewed the development stages of forensic medicine in Libya. He confirmed that Libya had no specialized national cadres before 1984. The country relied on foreign expertise at that time. Experts came from Egypt, Poland, and India.
Al-Maqsabi explained this to the Libyan News Agency. The establishment of Libyan cadres began with national doctors. Dr. Fawzi bin Omran was among them. Other doctors also joined the Judicial Expertise and Research Center. He noted the center covered Libya’s western and southern regions. Its headquarters was in Tripoli. The Benghazi branch covered the eastern region and Al-Kufra.
Cooperation with Egyptian universities launched a Master’s program. This program was in forensic medicine in Benghazi. It trained local cadres. These cadres now hold leadership positions in the field. A similar program was established at Al-Zawiya University’s Faculty of Medicine. Plans exist to reactivate the Benghazi program soon.
Al-Maqsabi discussed the practical aspect. Forensic medicine cases often reflect social changes. They also show behavioral transformations. He affirmed doctors’ commitment to professional ethics. This prevents disclosing case details. He showed two examples. They illustrated deliberate assault versus accidental incidents.
The first case involved a young man. He was attacked with a metal tool. This caused a serious injury. He suffered permanent disfigurement. In the second case, a young man lost an eye. This happened in an accidental car crash. He sustained glass shrapnel injuries. The incident concluded with reconciliation.
Genetic fingerprinting is a key modern forensic tool. It helps uncover complex crimes. This is done by re-analyzing preserved samples. It accurately identifies culprits. Accuracy can reach 100% in identical twin cases.
DNA tests are mainly used in major criminal cases. They also prove lineage. They can detect some genetic diseases. Their use is not routine for the general public.
Regarding infrastructure, Libya has two main DNA fingerprinting laboratories. One is at the Judicial Expertise Center. The other belonged to the Ministry of Wounded, Martyrs, and Missing Persons. He called for expanding these laboratories. They should include other cities. Support for Tripoli and Benghazi labs would also enhance criminal investigation.
Samples for analysis include blood, saliva, sweat, and semen. Hair, skin, bones, and teeth are also used. This ensures high accuracy in identification. This applies even in the most difficult cases.