OVM2601
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 2025
, OVM2601 Assignment 2
QUESTION 1
Scenario:
When a suspect or suspects are unknown, it becomes difficult for investigators to
identify and locate them. However, there are several important factors and methods that
can assist in tracing unknown suspects.
1.1 Factors that Can Assist an Investigator to Trace a Suspect (22 marks)
1. Witness Statements
Eyewitnesses who observed the crime or the suspect can provide valuable
information such as physical descriptions (height, build, clothing), behavior,
language, and any distinguishing features. These details help narrow down the
list of possible suspects.
2. Modus Operandi (MO)
Suspects often commit crimes using similar methods or patterns. By analyzing
the modus operandi, investigators can link crimes that share these patterns to
known offenders or predict the suspect’s next move.
3. Physical Evidence
Material evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, footprints, or hair found at the crime
scene can be collected and compared with forensic databases to identify or rule
out suspects.
4. Surveillance Footage
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras or private security cameras near the
crime scene can capture images or videos of the suspect, their movements, or
any vehicles involved, providing vital clues for identification.
5. Informers and Intelligence Gathering
Community informants, confidential sources, or undercover agents can supply
leads on the identity or location of unknown suspects. Good relationships
between law enforcement and the community can be key.
ASSIGNMENT 2 SEMESTER 1 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DATE: 2025
, OVM2601 Assignment 2
QUESTION 1
Scenario:
When a suspect or suspects are unknown, it becomes difficult for investigators to
identify and locate them. However, there are several important factors and methods that
can assist in tracing unknown suspects.
1.1 Factors that Can Assist an Investigator to Trace a Suspect (22 marks)
1. Witness Statements
Eyewitnesses who observed the crime or the suspect can provide valuable
information such as physical descriptions (height, build, clothing), behavior,
language, and any distinguishing features. These details help narrow down the
list of possible suspects.
2. Modus Operandi (MO)
Suspects often commit crimes using similar methods or patterns. By analyzing
the modus operandi, investigators can link crimes that share these patterns to
known offenders or predict the suspect’s next move.
3. Physical Evidence
Material evidence such as fingerprints, DNA, footprints, or hair found at the crime
scene can be collected and compared with forensic databases to identify or rule
out suspects.
4. Surveillance Footage
Closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras or private security cameras near the
crime scene can capture images or videos of the suspect, their movements, or
any vehicles involved, providing vital clues for identification.
5. Informers and Intelligence Gathering
Community informants, confidential sources, or undercover agents can supply
leads on the identity or location of unknown suspects. Good relationships
between law enforcement and the community can be key.
