OSCE Mission to Montenegro donates forensic equipment to national Forensic Centre

The OSCE Mission to Montenegro donated forensic equipment valued at €33,700 to the Forensic Centre in Danilovgrad on 11 September 2019.

The equipment includes a forensic analysis workstation, licenced software for internet evidence tracking and access to digital devices, mobile forensic equipment to extract evidentiary data at crime scenes and ten vehicle information number (VIN) readers to support a more efficient fight against the smuggling and theft of motor vehicles.

After signing the Donation Agreement with the Police Director Veselin Veljović, the Head of the OSCE Mission to Montenegro, Maryse Daviet, said that the equipment will assist criminal investigations, particularly into cybercrime. “It will enable the Forensic Centre to examine digital evidence and conduct data analysis at the crime scene to preserve evidence,” stated Daviet.

She recalled that the OSCE has supported the Forensic Centre since its inception in 2008, both in terms of providing equipment, but, more importantly, providing professional training and mentoring to its scientists. “The Centre has now been accredited internationally. This is a big step in combating regional and international crime. Evidence from this centre can be accepted in any court,” said Daviet.

Police Director Veljović said that today’s donation is significant, not only in terms of its value, but in terms of the contribution it will make to fighting against all forms of crime and in helping the criminal police sector and the overall results of the Forensic Centre.

“The Forensic Centre has grown into a serious institution that our service and country can be proud of. It meets the standards of renowned forensic centres,” said Veljović. He added that the co-operation with the OSCE has produced significant results over the years. “We recognize the OSCE as our strategic partner,” said the Police Director.

In September last year, the Mission donated a forensic workstation set and two polygraphs, worth 50,000 euros, to the Police Directorate. The Mission remains committed to providing assistance to the Montenegrin authorities in establishing a comprehensive approach to tackling crime in Montenegro.