Exploring the Role of Forensic Anthropology in Solving Cold Cases and Missing Persons Investigations
1Dr. Salma Shazia, 2Dr Nayella Nijat Bangash, 3Dr Mahwish Zeb, 4Dr Inayat Ullah, 5Dr Naheed Siddiqui, 6Dr Omair khan
1Associate professor Forensic Medicine Department Ayub Medical College Abbottabad
2Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Ayub Medical College, Abbottabad
3Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Ayub medical College Abbottabad
4Lecturer, Forensic medicine department, Ayub medical college, Abbottabad
5Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine &Toxicology, Khyber Girls Medical College, Peshawar 6Associate professor, Department of forensic medicine and toxicology, Ayub medical college
Corresponding author
Dr Omair khan, Associate professor, Department of forensic medicine and toxicology Ayub medical college
Vol: 05, Issue 03, 101-110
Received: August 25, 2025 Accepted: January 02, 2026 Published: January 20, 2026
ABSTRACT:
Background: Forensic anthropology, a specialized field within forensic science, focuses on the identification and analysis of human remains. It plays a crucial role in solving cold cases and missing persons investigations by providing insights that are often not apparent through other forensic methods. This study explores the impact and effectiveness of forensic anthropology in these complex investigations.
Aim: The aim of this study was to identify the missing persons in court cases and skeletal remains assessing both the identification processes and the subsequent legal outcomes.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 90 cases investigated between January 2016 and December 2023, where forensic anthropology was utilized. Data was collected from forensic reports, case files, and interviews with forensic anthropologists involved in these cases. The study examined the types of anthropological techniques used, the accuracy of identifications, and the influence of these identifications on the case resolutions.
Results: Out of the 90 cases analyzed, forensic anthropology significantly contributed to solving 67 cases (74.4%), providing critical information that led to the identification of previously unknown remains. In 45 cases (50%), the anthropological analysis directly influenced legal proceedings, leading to convictions or case closures. The most effective techniques included skeletal analysis, dental record comparison, and the use of facial reconstruction.
Conclusion: Forensic anthropology is a vital tool in the resolution of cold cases and missing persons investigations. The study demonstrates that its application not only aids in the identification of human remains but also significantly impacts the legal outcomes of these cases. Continued advancements and integration of forensic anthropology in law enforcement protocols are recommended to enhance investigative success.
Keywords: Forensic Anthropology, Cold Cases, Missing Persons, Human Remains Identification, Skeletal Analysis, Legal Outcomes, Facial Reconstruction.