The role of forensic DNA experts and Artificial Intelligence in enhancing the effectiveness of wildlife crime investigations in Cyprus

The increasing prevalence of wildlife crimes globally and in Cyprus presents an urgent need for more effective investigation methods. This study explores the factors that influence the effectiveness of wildlife crime investigations, focusing on the role of forensic DNA experts, different forensic methods, inter-agency relationships, and the incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based tools. Employing a quantitative approach and a sample of 560 respondents, the study finds that all the posited variables involvement of forensic DNA experts, types of forensic methods used, organizational and operational relationships, and AI-based forensic tools significantly influence the outcome of investigations. Forensic DNA experts and AI-based forensic tools are key contributors to investigation success. These findings show that forensic DNA experts (β = 0.60), modern forensic methods (β = 0.30), inter-agency relationships (β = 0.20), and AI-based tools (β = 0.40) significantly enhance wildlife crime investigations, highlighting the need for specialized training, advanced forensic techniques, and AI integration. The study fills an existing gap in research by focusing on Cyprus, an area underrepresented in previous studies. It also introduces AI-based tools such as machine learning algorithms for pattern recognition, automated DNA analysis, facial and species recognition software, and predictive analytics as a novel factor in enhancing the effectiveness of wildlife crime investigations.