Challenges and Innovations in Forensic Identification: Case Study of Decomposed Remains in a Crocodile's Body for Missing Child Identification

Abstract

Identifying a missing child from decomposed remains in a crocodile's body poses significant challenges and complexity. Forensic investigations involving human remains within animal’s body can present unique difficulties apart from conventional investigative scenarios. Decomposed remains added an additional layer of difficulty as the digestive process of a crocodile can significantly degrade the body and its features. Forensic anthropology examinations were impeded due to the limited availability of tiny bone samples. In this scenario decomposed bone pieces were the only remaining material for DNA analysis, the choice of an efficient DNA recovery procedure becomes crucial for successful outcome. In the study, prior to the DNA extraction process, a decontamination technique was employed, followed by decalcification method on the bone sample. The resulting, clean and decalcified bone sample was then subjected to extraction using a silica-based method, and the extracted DNA was subsequently typed through STR amplification. The derived DNA profile information from the bone sample pertaining to the child is compared with the profile details of parents for identification purposes.