Forensics – Delhi Police Expands Scientific Crime Investigation With Advanced Mobile Units
Forensics – The Delhi Police has expanded its scientific investigation framework by significantly increasing the use of forensic teams at crime scenes across the national capital. Between January 1 and May 31 this year, forensic experts inspected nearly 24,500 crime scenes and related locations, reflecting an increase of about 32 percent compared to the same period last year. The move highlights the growing emphasis on evidence-led investigations and the use of modern technology in criminal cases.
Stronger Forensic Infrastructure Across Police Districts
To improve on-site investigations, the Delhi Police now operates a fleet of 30 mobile forensic vans distributed across its 15 police districts, ensuring that each district has access to two dedicated units. Officials also confirmed that a separate forensic vehicle will soon be deployed exclusively for the Parliament complex to strengthen security-related investigations in the high-security zone.
During the corresponding period last year, forensic teams consisting of at least three trained professionals attended around 18,500 crime scenes. The latest figures indicate a notable rise in scientific examination activities as the force continues to integrate forensic methods into routine policing.
Investment in Technology-Driven Investigations
According to police officials, the expansion has been supported through the introduction of advanced mobile forensic vans and the recruitment of trained forensic specialists in partnership with the National Forensic Sciences University and the Forensic Science Laboratory. These initiatives are designed to ensure quicker response times, improve the collection of scientific evidence, and strengthen the overall quality of criminal investigations.
The first batch of 15 mobile forensic vans was acquired from the National Forensic Sciences University in 2023. Later, another 15 vehicles were added in 2025 under the Ministry of Home Affairs’ programme aimed at modernising forensic capabilities. With these additions, every police district in Delhi now has equal access to mobile forensic resources.
Mobile Labs Equipped for Modern Crime Detection
The mobile forensic vans are designed to function as compact laboratories capable of supporting investigators directly at crime scenes. They carry specialised equipment for documenting evidence, developing fingerprints, collecting biological samples, handling cyber and digital evidence, conducting forensic photography, and performing preliminary scientific examinations.
Officials said immediate forensic intervention at the scene helps preserve crucial evidence and reduces the possibility of contamination, allowing investigators to build stronger and more reliable cases.
Expansion of Skilled Forensic Workforce
Alongside the expansion of infrastructure, the Delhi Police has also increased its forensic manpower. Following directions from the Lieutenant Governor, the force collaborated with the National Forensic Sciences University to bring in senior and junior forensic assistants along with cyber forensic experts.
The Forensic Science Laboratory has also been providing technical support to investigating officers, enabling faster scientific analysis in criminal cases. Authorities believe that combining specialised expertise with advanced equipment will improve the efficiency of investigations across different categories of crime.
Focus on Better Investigations and Higher Conviction Rates
Officials said the growing integration of forensic science into everyday policing is expected to strengthen crime scene management, support investigations involving cyber offences, and contribute to higher conviction rates by improving the quality of evidence presented before courts.
The initiative also reflects the Delhi Police’s broader effort to modernise law enforcement through scientific practices, ensuring greater transparency, professional investigations, and increased public confidence in the criminal justice system,