From April 7 -18, Larisa Virlan, a Trainer in Crime Scene Management, facilitated a two-week training course on "DNA and Genotyping" for 8 officers — including one female officer — all serving within the General Directorate of Technical and Scientific Police (DGPTS). The initiative was launched and overseen by EUCAP expert Chris Meille, who also coordinated the organisation of the training.

European Union

The course was delivered by two nationally recognized experts from the DGPTS and the University of Science, Technology and Engineering of Bamako, along with three national trainers from the following research institutions:

• The University Clinical Research Center (UCRC)
• The Malaria Research and Training Center (MRTC) at the University of Science, Technology and Engineering of Bamako
• The African Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics (ACE-B), also affiliated with the same university

Understanding DNA analysis

As part of the training, participants visited these research centers. These field visits provided valuable opportunities to become familiar with various laboratory environments and to acquire a step-by-step understanding of the DNA analysis process. The officers showed particular interest in modules covering methods of DNA extraction, amplification, and interpretation of genetic profiles.

European Union

Larisa Virlan is a Romanian police officer with 20 years of experience. She joined EUCAP Sahel Mali in December 2024 as an expert in Crime Scene Management. She holds a degree in Psychology Applied to National Security and Defense, along with two master's degrees — one in Applied Forensic Research and another in Forensic Psychology Profiling. Her international experience includes serving with the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO).