An exploration of the investigative value of forensic firearm identification evidence in cash-in-transit armed robberies in the West Rand District Municipality

Abstract

Cash-in-transit (CIT) armed robberies are among the most violent forms of organised crime in South Africa and are frequently characterised by the use of high-powered firearms and explosives. The prevalence of these robberies, particularly in Gauteng Province, raises concerns about the effectiveness of the investigative and prosecutorial strategies employed to combat this crime. Forensic firearm identification evidence can link firearms to crime scenes and connect multiple incidents involving the same weapon, thereby enhancing criminal investigations and prosecutions. However, the extent of the investigative value of such evidence in CIT armed robbery cases required further exploration. The aim of this study was to examine the role of forensic firearm identification evidence in the investigation and prosecution of CIT armed robberies within the West Rand District Municipality. The study sought to establish the evidential value of forensic firearm identification evidence, identify the challenges associated with its use, and propose ways to enhance its contribution to criminal justice processes. A case study design was used within a qualitative research approach, guided by a constructivist worldview. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI) investigating officers, former forensic ballistics experts from the South African Police Service Forensic Science Laboratory, and prosecutors from the National Prosecuting Authority. The data were analysed inductively using thematic analysis. The findings revealed that forensic firearm identification evidence plays a significant role in connecting firearms to crime scenes, linking multiple crime scenes through a common firearm, reconstructing criminal events, and strengthening prosecutions in CIT armed robbery cases. The analysis of forensic firearm identification in ballistics is done within the framework of the AFTE Theory of Identification as developed by the Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners (AFTE). Participants emphasised that forensic firearm identification evidence does not directly link a suspect to a firearm but rather associates the firearm with a crime scene. Therefore, such evidence must be corroborated by other forms of evidence, including DNA, fingerprints, witness testimony, and intelligence information. The study highlighted several challenges, including delays in forensic processing, resource shortages, inadequate case management, breakdowns in the chain of custody, insufficient consultation among investigators, prosecutors and ballistics experts, and limited awareness of the evidential value of forensic firearm identification. The study concludes that forensic firearm identification evidence is an indispensable tool for investigation and prosecution in CIT armed robbery cases. Yet, its effectiveness is constrained by organisational, operational and resource-related challenges. The researcher developed a conceptual framework that outlines the recommendations, namely: enhanced awareness of forensic firearm identification, increased capacity within forensic laboratories, improved inter-agency collaboration, prioritisation of ballistics cases, comprehensive evidence-collection procedures, and exploration of advanced ballistic technologies to improve criminal justice outcomes in firearm-related crime investigations.