Obliteration Trends Around the World

In 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.