Kabelo Tlhabanelo
The Local Criminal Record Centre in Bloemfontein has run out of the scientifically approved powder required for lifting fingerprints, so the cops have decided to make do with the next best thing.
They have resorted to the untested solution of using cement oxide to lift fingerprints from crime scenes.
Cement oxide is a coloured substance normally used to colour cement-based materials. There is no evidence or scientific study known to Scrolla.Africa which suggests that it can be used to accurately lift fingerprints.
Other than having no evidence beyond hearsay that the powder actually works, the police have realised it could jeopardise criminal trials, paving the way for criminals to walk away scott-free.
The Bloemfontein police say that it could give the criminals’ representatives a strong argument in court, as they could state that the wrong chemicals were used to lift their clients’ fingerprints from crime scenes.
One cop who spoke to Scrolla.Africa on the condition of anonymity said they decided to use the oxide after running out of the specialised black powder in April.
“We were told by a colleague that the cement oxide powder is also capable of giving fingerprints and we started buying it from a local hardware store.”
Another cop said that not only was oxide powder unapproved to lift up fingerprints, it also gave them itchy eyes.
He said the staff at the hardware store laughed at them when they told them what they needed the powder for as they bought it in bulk.
“The powder we use is meant to dye the floor and not for fingerprints. But we don’t have a choice. Our management doesn’t care.”
National police spokesperson Colonel Athlenda Mathe confirmed that the conventional fingerprint black powder had been completely used up.
“However, there are alternative fingerprint powders that can be used in the absence of black powder,” she said, but couldn’t say what the alternative powders were.
She said the procurement process has been initiated and the application is at evaluation stage with the national treasury and supply chain.
“There is no need for members to buy from hardware stores. Procuring fingerprint consumables outside of the technical specifications will be irregular and constitute misconduct.”
She added that allegations that cops were using other powders will be investigated and action will be taken.
