Gorongosa National Park’s Conservation Department is training park rangers in biodiversity crime investigation, focusing on crime scene management and identifying money laundering—a widespread issue that affects the country in different areas, including the environmental sector and illegal plant and wildlife trade.
Building on previous training in investigative skills, rangers who participate in the training are gaining skills to accurately collect evidence at crime scenes which includes identifying and marking the crime scene perimeter, conducting laboratory analysis, and preparing reports for legal action by the Prosecutor’s Office.
Rangers involved in the training are being equipped with wide range of strategies that allow them to identify people who are directly or indirectly involved in crimes, gather known information about their activities and detain them according to the law.
They are also learning how to compile details, evidence and news reports, essential tools for recording data—photos, videos and other key elements that help solve crimes.
The training also covers crime scene safety protocols, necessary evidence collection materials, and proper uniforms. Rangers must follow these guidelines carefully to prevent contamination within the investigation perimeter.
