The phrase “no foreign DNA found” has caused confusion and concern among many following the case of CweCwe, a young girl who was reportedly raped. This statement, often cited in media reports or official communications, may appear to contradict the initial findings of the doctors who examined her and concluded that she had indeed been sexually assaulted.
In any case of alleged rape, particularly involving a minor, standard medical and forensic procedures are followed. When CweCwe was brought in for examination, doctors would have thoroughly documented any visible injuries, both external and internal. These injuries form part of the medical evidence that supports the conclusion of sexual assault.
In addition to documenting physical trauma, doctors and forensic experts also collect biological evidence. This includes swabs from the victim’s body—such as vaginal, oral, or anal swabs depending on the nature of the assault—as well as samples from under the fingernails, clothing, and other relevant materials. The goal is to recover DNA that could potentially belong to the perpetrator.
Given this context, the phrase “no foreign DNA found” can be misleading. It may suggest that no sexual assault took place, which contradicts the medical findings. In reality, what is likely meant is that the DNA samples collected from the suspect did not match any DNA found on the victim or at the scene.https://x.com/labi125/status/1908742232141705558?t=gtwj3JTbdcQzUfzQm6KJzg&s=19
This is a critical distinction.
Saying that the suspect’s DNA does not match the evidence is a factual statement and an important part of a fair investigation. However, it does not negate the fact that a rape occurred—only that this particular suspect may not be the person responsible, at least based on the DNA evidence available.
There are many reasons why foreign DNA might not be found in such cases. For example, if the victim was bathed or cleaned before evidence could be collected, crucial biological traces could be lost. Time delays between the incident and the forensic exam can also degrade DNA. Additionally, not all assaults involve the transfer of DNA in detectable amounts, especially if a condom was used or if the assailant took steps to avoid leaving evidence.
Therefore, while DNA evidence can be incredibly powerful in linking suspects to crimes, its absence does not automatically imply innocence, nor does it mean the crime did not occur.
To avoid further confusion, officials and media should choose their words carefully. Instead of stating “no foreign DNA was found,” it would be clearer and more accurate to say, “The suspect’s DNA did not match any evidence collected from the victim.” This phrasing respects both the victim’s experience and the integrity of the investigative process, while maintaining transparency for the public.