Forensic DNA database and criminal investigation in the Sahel region: a need to update the national security policy?

Abstract

Ongoing terrorist attacks in the Sahel region call for strengthening the security system by using human deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) identification technology. In this context, public opinion must be considered when establishing solid standards and universal safeguards for one of the most invasive forms of surveillance and profiling. For this purpose, we gathered Internet users’ opinions in Burkina Faso (BF, a country located in the Sahel region) on the use of DNA technology to support criminal investigations. The results revealed that 91.7% (431) of the 470 participants believed that this technology is currently necessary for the BF’s criminal justice system. However, the respondents expressed concerns about the custody and management of a national forensic DNA database (NFDD). In this particular security setting, the public opinion of this study may provide leaders and political policymakers with clues for considering genetic fingerprints and implementing an NFDD to support criminal investigations in BF while also considering the ethical implications.