Forensic toxicology and Blood alcohol services refer to the use of scientific methods to detect and analyze drugs, chemicals, alcohols and other toxins in biological samples, such as blood, urine, Stomach contents, bile, Saliva etc. and interpreting the results or findings in the context of helping legal investigations.

Forensic toxicology services are also used in cases involving drug-facilitated crimes, such as sexual assault or robbery, where the victim may have been unknowingly drugged. In these cases, forensic toxicology analysis can identify the presence of drugs in the victim's system and help establish the circumstances of the crime.

Functions and services:

 Forensic Toxicology and Blood alcohol serve the judicial system, and individuals at the national or international level. The varieties of services offered to our clients are listed down here depending on the nature of evidence and analytical techniques employed in the analysis.

Analysis of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) in biological samples (Blood/Urine)

These are internationally controlled/illicit drugs as mentioned by United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). In Rwanda, major part of these drugs are consumed by/from drug dealers (drug traffickers) imported or exported. The example of NDPS are cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines, heroin, etc.

Analysis of other harmful chemicals (poisons) in biological samples (Gastric content, Blood, urine, bile, vitreous humour)

These are chemicals substances primarily used in chemistry-related fields such as laboratories, pharmacies, industries, agriculture, etc. These chemicals are sometimes used to harm or poison humans, animals or plants by producing injury or death. Examples of these chemicals are Pesticides, Acids, Solvents, Alcohols, heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, toxic plants and other chemical substances (organics inorganics) which are naturally toxic. They are predominantly used in poisoning cases (e.g. homicide/suicide) or mixing with foods and drinks for intoxication. 

Analysis of alcohol in the blood

There is a relationship between the concentration of alcohol in the blood (blood alcohol concentration - BAC) and its effects. Each person responds differently to the effects of alcohol based on mood, setting, physical health, and tolerance. Intoxication is the point at which alcohol depresses the central nervous system so that mood and physical and mental abilities are noticeably changed. In Rwanda, the legal definition of intoxication is a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 and above.