Use of DNA in criminal cases{Mauritius}

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National Assembly Approves DNA Identification Bill GIS - July 21, 2009:The Prime Minister, Dr Navin Ramgoolam GCSK, FRCP, expressed satisfaction with the general consensus regarding  the DNA Identification Bill  which was voted in the National Assembly on July 22.  According to the Prime Minister, the Bill integrates the Criminal Justice System now prevailing in Mauritius, and DNA is one of the investigating tools that will be put at the disposal of the Police. DNA profiling is one of the most important tools in the fight against crime and terrorism, he said   However, it does not replace good policing and other investigative procedures. “We are putting at the disposal of our investigating authorities a powerful investigating tool, which will further strengthen the independence and impartiality of any inquiry in the future” Dr Ramgoolam said. The main object of the Bill is to empower the police, in certain specific circumstances in connection with serious offences, to take and make use of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) samples for the purpose of determining the connection with or involvement of a person in an offence. It also provides that a DNA sample can only be taken by the order of a Judge in Chambers unless a person, who is not a convicted person, or who may be connected or associated with an offence, consents. The DNA Identification Bill makes provision for the establishment of a DNA Data Records, a DNA Population Statistical Database and a database for unidentified or missing persons. It ensures that information gathered as a result of the taking of a DNA sample is treated as strictly confidential. It also enables cooperation with foreign law enforcement agencies on matters relating to information in the DNA Data Records; and provides for the establishment of filiation using DNA, pursuant to a Judge’s order.