DSDS 22
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Browsing DSDS 22 by Subject "Diversion"
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Item Open Access Obliterated Firearms Markings Documented in an African Country(Cranfield University, 2023-01-05T12:40:29Z) Henwood, BaileyFor the first time, a 'boots on the ground' approach has been taken to understand obliterations made to Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) recovered and documented in an African state, Country X. 126 firearms, primarily AK-pattern, were documented by Conflict Armament Research during a 10-year mission. These weapons were sanitised by local actors by removing identifying markings such as serial numbers and factory marks. Each obliteration was carefully analysed to determine the type of tool used by identifying the class characteristics of the toolmark, and to identify precisely which marks were removed. An obliteration code system has been developed, which identifies the tool type, completeness, marks removed, directionality, and any additional concealment. These codes have allowed to development of a database of obliterations and will, in turn, aid the intelligence-led investigation into the local forensic awareness, physical capabilities, and the motivation to obscure the SALWs identity. The results indicate that many of the weapons in each profile were likely sanitised by the same node-or were at least under the instruction of one common actor. This study also established that the forensic awareness within Country X is relatively low, as many of these marks may be recoverable using either traditional or novel means, if given the opportunity. The motivation for many of these weapons lies in the maintenance of monetary value, while concealing the identity to evade tracing efforts. This paper utilises a novel approach to understand weapon sanitisation in Country X, and how methods of obliteration can enhance further investigations in the region.Item Open Access Obliteration Trends Around the World(Cranfield University, 2022-11-21T16:20:18Z) Henwood, BaileyIn both conflict zones and criminal investigations, the identification of firearms used in the commission of crimes is critical. This allows the tracking of weapons from manufacturers and legal owners to illicit actors and unauthorised users. The forensic investigation of firearms used in the commission of crime, in any theatre, is often complicated by the removal of identifying features like serial numbers, factory marks and manufacturer logos. This presentation will outline differences in obliteration techniques across the globe, while also highlighting potential motivations to conceal the firearms identity from the outset.