The Criminal Investigation Service (SIK) has called on the government to purchase DNA testing equipment.
SIK commander Superintendent Ludgerio Lay said DNA material was presently sent to Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia or India for testing.
National Police of Timor-Leste (PNTL) commanders have submitted an application to the government for the purchase of the equipment.
“PNTL has a mini laboratory to test finger prints but it can’t do other things such as test DNA,” Superintendent Lay said.
Commission F (health, education, culture, veterans’ affairs and gender equality) member Eladio Faculto echoed the call for improved facilities.
“DNA testing facilities are very important because there are remains of respected people who we have not been able to identify because we don’t have the equipment in this country,” he said.
He said some remains were being kept at the National Hospital of Guido Valadares morgue awaiting transport to India for DNA testing.
Fundasaun Mahein director Nelson Belo said SIK required improved facilities.
“SIK still does not have DNA testing facilities or a metal detector,” he said.
The lack of equipment impeded the service’s ability to investigate cases thoroughly, he said.
