The Police have issued guidelines on how to conduct DNA tests by parents and warned the public against violating the rights of children affected by the negative results.

On Monday, July 3, 2023, while addressing the weekly media briefing at Naguru Police Headquarters, SCP Fred Enanga, the police spokesperson, said they have received reports regarding violation of rights of children affected by the DNA result.

He said the privacy of children affected by the results is being infringed on by some members of the public recording them for social media circulation, adding that some have been subjected to uncertainty.

Enanga notes that the demand for DNA tests by men seeking to ascertain the paternity of children from previous relations or where they suspect the wives, and by women seeking child support, among others, is on the increase.

According to Enanga, DNA testing must only be carried out at certified centers with strict adherence to professionalism to avoid altering the result, adding that it is improper to carry DNA test kits home since they can be subject to contamination, which can affect the final result, causing tension in the family.

He advised those wishing for the service to go to a certified DNA testing center, noting that those protesting the result can still file a complaint with the police or seek another test from a different center.

Recently, the Immigration Department announced that demands from men seeking to expunge particulars from their children’s passports after negative DNA results are on the rise.

A DNA test (genetic testing) is a medical test that can identify mutations in your genes, chromosomes, or proteins, which can indicate if you have or don’t have a genetic condition and can also identify your risk for developing a certain condition or passing on a genetic disorder. It is the only test that show the paternity origin of someone.