Published: Wednesday June 13, 2012 MYT 10:18:00 PM

Foray murder: Not enough DNA in semen stains

KUANTAN: A chemist testified in the trial of petty trader Asni Omar accused of murdering French tourist Stephanie Foray that the semen stains on the mattress, an evidence exhibit in the case, were not sufficient for DNA profiling.

Nor Aidora Saedon, the prosecution's third witness said for DNA profiling, the semen concentration must be 0.3 nanogram per microlitre (ng/ul) but the sample on the mattress was only 0.02 ng/ul.

Under cross-examination by Asni's counsel Ibrahim Kamaruddin, she said the liquor bottle that was allegedly used in the incident did not contain any blood stains or DNA profile.

Asni Omar, 37, allegedly murdered Foray, 37, at an unnumbered house in Kampung Tekek, Pulau Tioman, Rompin between 8pm on May 10, 2011 and 12 noon on May 12, 2011.

Nor Aidora when asked by the prosecution whether a person's DNA profile would be damaged if the individual had a drink such as coffee or tea, or tobacco, four hours before the sample was taken, she replied in the negative.

"It is true that there are some rules requiring the donor to exempt from coffee, tea or tobacco for at least four hours before the DNA sample is taken.

"However this is only applicable if the sample is to be taken from the donor's buccal cells. The DNA profile cannot be extracted if there is presence of chemical such as caffeine or tannin which will inhibit the DNA. But the DNA profile of the person will not change," she said.

At this juncture the defence, led by counsel Ibrahim Kamarudin interjected, saying it was the other way round, and referred to a book authored by Dr B.R Sharma titled Forensic Science In Criminal Investigation and Trial.

However, Justice Datuk Mariana Yahya chided the defence saying Nor Aidora was just as qualified to testify in court on DNA.

Hearing continues Thursday. - Bernama

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