INP and ASEANAPOL Secretariat Hold Virtual Meeting to Discuss the 1st Working Group on DVI/CSI

On 24 March 2025, the Indonesian National Police (INP) held a virtual meeting with the ASEANAPOL Secretariat (AS) to discuss preparations for the 1st Working Group on Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) / Crime Scene Investigation (CSI), which is scheduled to take place virtually on 16 April 2025.

Dr. Lisda Cancer, Chairperson of DVI/CSI from INP, delivered a presentation outlining the preparations for the upcoming working group meeting. She emphasized that the primary objective of this initiative is to strengthen coordination and cooperation in DVI/CSI efforts across Southeast Asia. Additionally, she highlighted that the working group aims to enhance the capabilities of ASEANAPOL Member Countries (AMCs) in responding to catastrophic events that require DVI/CSI and other forensic services.

The Executive Director of the ASEANAPOL Secretariat David Martinez Vinluan, underscored the strong connection between DVI/CSI and the ASEANAPOL Police Forensic Science Network (APFSN). He further stated that the outcomes of the working group should be presented for endorsement by the Chiefs of ASEANAPOL.Executive Director Vinluan also emphasized the importance of the "Good Neighbor Concept," wherein ASEAN neighboring countries must be ready to assist those in need during times of crisis. He stressed that establishing a practical and strategic mechanism for AMCs to coordinate effectively during emergencies would enhance regional disaster response. Through this approach, AMCs could mobilize a DVI/CSI and forensic services assistance team in the aftermath of catastrophic events, ensuring a coordinated regional effort to accelerate the recovery and identification of victims.

The meeting concluded with constructive discussions between INP and the ASEANAPOL Secretariat. Both parties expressed optimism that the Working Group on DVI/CSI would serve as a new cooperation forum under the ASEANAPOL framework and a significant step toward strengthening regional collaboration in forensic science and disaster response.