Baku:The State Security Service's Main Military Medical Department has successfully genetically identified 328 missing persons, as announced by Rufat Aliyev, Head of the Department and Major General of the Medical Service, during a panel session at the 4th International Conference held within the Baku Dialogue on Missing Persons.

According to Azeri-Press news agency, the conference highlighted the importance of a comprehensive approach to the global problem of missing persons, exacerbated by armed conflicts, natural disasters, illegal migration, and transnational crimes. Aliyev emphasized the significance of DNA-based research in identifying missing persons and achieving significant results in this field. The Genetic Research Center of the Main Military Medical Department, despite being a relatively new establishment, has made strides in developing skilled personnel and equipping its laboratory with state-of-the-art technology.

The Center's commitment to international standards has been underscored by its accreditation and certification by the National Accreditation Center in May 2024, in line with the ISO/IEC 17025:2017 standard. Preparations for accreditation under the ISO 20387 standard, aimed at ensuring the competence and consistent operation of biobanks, have also been completed, with the accreditation process expected to occur in November.

Aliyev noted that the Genetic Research Center's digital transformation and collaboration with the State Commission on Prisoners of War, Hostages, and Missing Persons, along with other state institutions, have bolstered the reliability of research and service quality. This progress has increased public confidence in the search for missing persons. He also highlighted the necessity for genetic specialists to continuously update their skills and knowledge, with special training and professional development being prioritized at both individual and organizational levels.