New forensic tech for police

National
Detective Sgt Stewart Speedie (left) with AFP and RPNGC officers observing Constable Michael Oaeke (middle) and Constable Stanis Luveni (right) demonstrating the cellebrite’s functions yesterday. – Nationalpic by NICKY BERNARD

LOCAL police are now able to extract contents of mobile phones using a forensic technology when investigating cases, says Australia Federal Police (AFP) Assistant Commissioner Jamie Strauss.
Two new cellebrite machines or digital forensics mobile data-download devices were handed over to police in Port Moresby.
“These two cellebrite machines are a data extraction reporting tool. With appropriate training, it will develop the digital forensics ability in the PNG constabulary. It has a three year licence,” Strauss said.
He said between 80 and 90 per cent of crimes were either linked to social media or a component of it. It is therefore important for investigators to use such technology to obtain evidence.
“This technology includes a seizure forensics imaging, analysis of digital media, along with the production of a report that can be extracted from the phones and used as evidence in court.”
Meanwhile, nine police officers under the Transnational Crime Unit and Water Police divisions had been trained by the AFP personnel to operate the devices.
Police Commissioner David Manning said it was only fitting for the constabulary to keep pace with the latest technology in investigating criminal cases involving mobile phones.
“As we introduce new technology to assist in crime fighting, we will also need to engage the law and justice sector so they understand how we operate this capability and present evidences before the court,” Manning added.
He also said they were looking forward to introducing speed-radar guns and breathalyser test kits soon to enforce traffic rules.