Research Article

The role of beetles and flies as silent witnesses in forensic evidence

Abstract

Forensic entomology is one of the most effective and accurate methods used by law enforcement officers at crime scenes to identify suspects and decide the reason of death. This research reviews, studies, and examines various insect species found on decomposing bodies at different post-mortem intervals. It also aims to analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of forensic entomology compared to other forensic methods used as evidence. This brief paper summarizes the most important ways in which entomology currently contributes to criminal investigations, including complex criminal cases, suicides, and homicides. This research provides a comprehensive scientific review of this field, covering its biological foundations, field and laboratory procedures, important forensic insect species, applied studies, and the challenges it faces.