Workshop on the Outreach of the Firearms Focal Point and Ballistic Laboratory to the Prosecutors successfully held in Belgrade on 7-8 December

Last week, SEESAC wrapped up a two-day Workshop on the Outreach of the Firearms Focal Point (FFP) and Ballistic Laboratory of the Ministry of the Interior of the Republic of Serbia to the Prosecution Office in Support of Firearms Crime Related Investigations.

This Workshop is part of a series of workshops organized throughout the region aiming to facilitate better outreach and cooperation among the FFPs, ballistic experts, and prosecution offices.

The Workshop was thematically divided into two parts. On the first day, the focus was on the modalities of cooperation between the FFP and Prosecution Offices and how this cooperation can enhance the quality of the investigation process. It also shed light on the FFP's specific analytical products and how they can contribute to and strengthen the work of investigators in firearms-related cases. The second day of the workshop centred on presentations from Ballistic Laboratory and Forensic Centre. These presentations showcased specific methods and techniques that Ballistic Laboratory and Forensic Centre have, providing valuable insights into resources that are available to the prosecution’s office.

It was highlighted that the primary function of the FFP is producing fast intelligence and analytical products, and that it can offer on-demand support to investigators in their ongoing cases by producing specific ad-hoc intelligence reports. Special focus was put on the added value the forensic and ballistic intelligence brings to the investigation processes and how the evidence can be better utilized. 

The examination of case studies facilitated lively discussions and dynamic exchange between the experts, investigators, and prosecutors who, each from their own perspective, shared the challenges in working in firearms-related crimes and gave recommendations on the way forward, with the final aim to ensure stronger cases and better investigation processes.

This Workshop was organized within the Regional IPA project in Support for Enhancing the Fight Against the Illegal Possession, Misuse, and Trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) in the Western Balkans.