Zhang Mengting conducts DNA analysis work in a laboratory. Photo: Hubei Daily

A DNA forensic analyst from the Xiangyang Public Security Bureau, Central China's Hubei Province, identified a suspect using DNA extracted from a single drop of blood from a mosquito, ultimately helping police arrest the fugitive after he had fled to another region, Hubei Daily reported.

The analyst, named Zhang Mengting, has worked in forensic DNA analysis for six years, during which she has examined more than 16,400 biological samples with zero errors, according to the report.

For instance, in a criminal case that occurred in Gucheng county, Xiangyang, in August 2020, the crime scene was chaotic, making it difficult for investigators to obtain useful leads. 

Tracking the direction in which the suspect had fled, police discovered a makeshift shelter where the suspect was believed to have spent the night, Hubei Daily reported. 

Zhang then returned to the scene for a second inspection. After repeated meticulous searches, she discovered a two millimeter square bloodstain on a worn mat, believed to have come from a mosquito crushed by the suspect.

By cross referencing DNA extracted from the mosquito blood, police pinpointed the suspect's identity and apprehended the fugitive after he fled to another area, the report said.

"A single strand of hair, a drop of sweat, or a piece of dander at a crime scene can become the key to uncovering the truth," Zhang said, adding, "But real physical evidence never reveals itself voluntarily; only through patient and meticulous examination can investigators identify crucial clues from complex traces."

In addition to assisting in criminal investigations, Zhang has also used DNA comparison technology to help parents find their missing children. Over her six-year career, Zhang has employed DNA technology to identify suspects in more than 320 difficult cases, developed various technical methods that helped locate 35 trafficked individuals, and helped reunite 42 families, Hubei Daily reported.


Global Times