Abstract
The most valuable form of physical evidence in forensic investigation are latent fingerprints (LFP). They are known as blueprints because they are unique, permanent and most often left at crime scenes on a wide variety of surfaces. These impressions are commonly invisible to naked eyes and can only be seen under UV light after some chemical treatment. To make them visible for investigation procedure it is needed to use proper development techniques for further analysis. There are different methods which are used for fingerprint enhancement like powder dusting, sparkling, spraying etc but in my research work I have used powder dusting technique. It is widely used in developing countries because it is cost effective and its application of usage is so easy to understand. However, commercially available fingerprint powders are expensive and are imported because they are not manufactured locally in Pakistan, thus further straining the country's import bill and the budget of our investigative agencies. That is why we decided to find cheap, locally produced, readily available common household powders as an alternative to expensive imported commercial fingerprint powders. This study focuses on the use of commonly used powders that are mentioned below talcum powder (T.P), compact powder (C.P), blush powder (B.P) and last but not the least Surma also known as kohl powder (S.P). These powders are used for the enhancement of latent fingerprints on different non-porous surfaces. Those nonporous surfaces which are used in this research work are Ceramic, Glass, Plastic and Metal. This research helps us to know which powder gives effective result about development, ridge clarity for analysis. This study shows that findings of different powder performance vary depending on the type of powder used and the nature of surface used. Fine textured powders give better ridge clarity on smooth surfaces. The improved contrast is mostly shown by coloured powders. A crucial role is played by surface in deciding the visibility and quality of developed print. This research aim is to select proper powder and surface combination to achieve optimal fingerprint development