Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) Malaysia: The MH17 Tragedy The Untold Story by Azhar Abd Jamil

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

THE MH17

TRAGEDY T H E

U N T O L D

RD 9M-M

S T O R Y

9M-MRD BOEING 777-2H6ER Donetsk 17.07.2014

Acknowledgements

Last Contact 13:20GMT 1

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) MALAYSIA

THE MH17 Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) MALAYSIA

TRAGEDY T H E

U N T O L D

S T O R Y

RD 9M-M

9M-MRD BOEING 777-2H6ER Donetsk 17.07.2014

Last Contact 13:20GMT

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

9M-MRD BOEING 777-2H6ER

Last Contact 13:20GMT

THE MH17 Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) MALAYSIA

TRAGEDY T H E

U N T O L D

S T O R Y

RD 9M-M

9M-MRD BOEING 777-2H6ER Donetsk 17.07.2014

Last Contact 13:20GMT

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Publisher: UiTM Press Design and Visual Development: Dr Assuan Atan Sulong (IPFN) and Dr Azhar Abd Jamil (UiTM) Text Font: Helvetica Regular 10pt-123pt Printed by: UiTM Printing Centre, Creative Media & Technology Hub, Faculty of Art & Design, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Selangor, Malaysia. Apart for many fair dealing for the purpose of private study, research, cristicism or review, as permitted under the copyright, no part of this publication may be reproduced by any process without written permission. Enquiries should be addressed to the publisher, While all reasonable attempts at factual accuracy have been made, the publisher accepts no responsibility for any errors contained in this book. ©Copyright 2021 UiTM Press Library of congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

‘MH17’ / Mohd Shah Mahmood / Hapizah Mohd Nawawi / Azhar Abd Jamil ISBN

Chapter Table One of Contents

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Table of Contents Table of Contents

List of abbreviations i Appreciation ii-iii Appreciation iv-v Puisi - Tragedi MH17 Nukilan - Dr Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi, MH17 DVI Malaysia IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Acknowledgment viii-ix Working Committee, Steering Committee Editorial Board x-xi Foreword Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah xii Director-General of Health, Ministry of Health, Malaysia Foreword YBhg. Professor Ts. Dr Hajah Roziah Mohd Janor xiii Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International) (exercising the functions of the Vice-Chancellor) Universiti Teknologi MARA Foreword YBhg. Professor Dr Mohd Nazip Suratman xiv Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Preface Datuk Dr. Mohd Shah Mahmood xvi Senior Consultant Forensic Pathologist, IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Preface Professor Datin Dr. Hapizah Binti Md Nawawi xvii Director Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Centre of Excellence, Universiti Teknologi MARA Chapter 1: Preamble 01-03 Chapter 2: Introduction 04-05 Chapter 3: Pre-Deployment Preparation 06-13 Chapter 4: Preliminary Arrangement in Kiev, Ukraine 14-21 Chapter 5: Covert Mission in Donetsk, Ukraine 22-81 Chapter 6: DVI Operations in Hilversum, the Netherlands 82-129 Chapter 7: The Final Journey 130-155 Chapter 8: Emerging Issues and DVI Research in Malaysia 156-176 Chapter 9: Conclusion 178 Appreciation 179 Puisi - Nokhtah Sakinah Professor Datin Dr. Hapizah Binti Md Md Nawawi Kumpulan Penyelidikan DVI I-PPerForM, Kampus Sg Buloh, UiTM, Malaysia References 180-184 Appendix 185-189 Acknowledgment 190-195 Index 196-197 Autograph 198-201

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

9M-MRD BOEING 777-2H6ER Donetsk Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17 8

17.07.2014

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

List of Abbreviations

AM CBRN DCA DNA DVI HKL ICAO INTERPOL IPFN JAKIM KAGAT KLIA KM LTFO MAF MAS MOSTI MOH MOT NADMA NDCC NSC OSCE PASKAU PM PMCT PPE RMP SMART SOP

Antemortem Chemical, Biological, Radiology and Nuclear Department of Civil Aviation Deoxyribonucleic Acid Disaster Victim Identification Hospital Kuala Lumpur International Civil Aviation Organisation International Police Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara Jabatan Kemajuan Islam Malaysia Kor Agama Angkatan Tentera Kuala Lumpur International Airport Kimia Malaysia Landelijk Team Forensische Opsporing Malaysian Armed Forces Malaysia Airlines Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Ministry of Health Malaysia Ministry of Transport Malaysia National Disaster Management Agency National Disaster Control Centre National Security Council of Malaysia Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe Pasukan Khas Udara Postmortem Postmortem Computed Tomography Personal Protective Equipment Royal Malaysian Police Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance Rescue Team Standard Operating Procedure

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

List of Abbreviations

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

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FIRST LEG

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ALL 295 on board Malaysia Airlines MH17 to Kuala Lumpur are feared dead. Early reports say the Boeing 777-200 may have been shot down hours after take-oﬀ from Amsterdam. Pro-Russian separatists and Ukraine government trade accusations. PM Najib joins Malaysians in expressing shock.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

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Families express relief at return of loved ones ’ remains, which are expected to arrive in Malaysia by Frid ay earliest

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Appreciation

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Appreciation

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

his book is especially dedicated to all victims of the 2014 MH17 tragedy, their family and loved ones, and to each and every individual and organisation involved in one way or another in the tragedy.

iii

Appreciation

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Appreciation TRAGEDI MH17 17 Julai 2014, Tarikh duka Warga dunia, Satu tarikh Kekal terpahat, Lipatan sejarah. Satu tarikh, Parut duka kepada keluarga, Juga negara dan dunia. Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

MH17, Dari Amsterdam menuju Kuala Lumpur, Di kokpitnya 2 jiwa, Penerbangnya, Penuh pengalaman, Jam penerbangan tidak terbanding, Mengemudi kapal tanpa wasangka, Setiap prosedur telah diteliti, Diperiksa rapi, Di tepi kanannya Pegawai Pertama, Tidak kurang hebatnya. Melaksanakan setiap arahan Ketua, Memeriksa balas segala langkah, Ikut aturan seperti ditetapkan, Di belakang duduk Sang Jurutera, Memastikan kapal baik-baik sahaja. MH17, 33,000 kaki di atas udara, Siang waktu Eropah, Sedang melintasi wilayah konflik, Sebuah negara yang sedang berantakan, Penerbang mengikut laluan di tetapkan, Sentiasa komunikasi dengan menara kawalan.

Appreciation

MH17, Di dalam ada 298 jiwa, Kanak-kanak juga dewasa, Pelbagai warga, agama dan bangsa, Hati yang berbunga, Ada yang ingin pulang ke kampung halaman, Ada yang ingin melihat keindahan Malaysia, Mereka-mereka itu, Dilayani mesra, Anak-anak kapal, Yang setia dengan senyuman, Keikhlasan hati. MH17 Sedang ia waktu itu, Terbang tenang di atas sana, Tanpa sedari, Di bawah sana, Ada yang membidik, Berpandukan radar, Ditekan picunya, Sebuah peluru melunjur laju, Meletup ia di kiri kokpit. Membunuh sertamerta dua di dalamnya. Fiuslajnya tidak bertahan, Berpecah ia di udara, Jatuh bersamanya semua jiwa. Terkorban sekelip mata. Jiwa-jiwa tidak berdosa, Tidak langsung terlibat sengketa.

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Dan Kami, DVI Malaysia, Menggalas amanah Nusa, Mengembalikan jasad-jasad mangsa, Ke pangkuan keluarga dan negara. Dari Kuala Lumpur terbang ke Kiev, Di Kiev berpecah dua, Mayat-mayat mangsa dalam pegangan Puak Pemisah. Satu kumpulan kami secara rahsia, Ke Donestk berunding, Mendapatkan mangsa dan juga kotak hitam. Satu kumpulan terbang ke Belanda, Kerana disitulah tempatnya, Untuk dikenalpasti jasad-jasad mangsa. Hilversum, Jasad-jasad terkujur Walau apa keadaannya, Dapat dikembalikan identitinya, Dan kami pulangkan mereka ke pangkuan tersayang, Disempurnakan sebaiknya. Satu noktah penutup kepada keluarga tercinta.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Appreciation

Nukilan: Dr Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi, MH17 DVI Malaysia IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Malaysia 3 Julai 2021 bersamaan 23 Dzulkaedah 1442

Appreciation

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Let the dead be the dead But give them a face For them not to be forgotten Give the living their lost ones In order to give them a place And to remember them by Landelijk Team Forensische Opsporing (LTFO), Netherlands

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17 vi

Appreciation

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Appreciation

vii

Appreciation

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Acknowledgment

irst and foremost, the Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara (IPFN) wishes to earnestly acknowledge the international DVI teams involved in the MH17 DVI operations, especially

to the Landelijk Team Forensische Opsporing (LTFO), who led the undertaking. Special thanks also go to the Embassy of Malaysia in the Netherlands, for their support. Kudos also to all DVI Malaysia team members, the AM and PM teams, who worked many hours, both in

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Malaysia and in the Netherlands. The collaborations and coordination among all the above parties ensured the success of the operation. The IPFN also extends its appreciation to YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak, the Prime Minister of Malaysia at the time of the MH17 tragedy, and also to the Government of Malaysia, for making the MH17 DVI Malaysia operation achievable. Besides holding up the country’s honour by insisting on retrieving the black box so that investigations could be conducted independantly, the Government’s efforts also ensured the Malaysian team’s involvement in the operations, and established DVI Malaysia at the international level. We are indebted to the Ministry of Health Malaysia, especially to the then YB Minister of Health, the Director General of Health and Secretary General of

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Acknowledgements

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Health; the Chief of Defence Force of Malaysia; the Inspector-General of Police Malaysia; the Director General of Kimia Malaysia and the Malaysian National Security Council (MNSC). We are also grateful for the good services provided by various Ministries and government departments such as the Ministry of Transport Malaysia, Ministry of the Immigration Department of Malaysia. Our heartfelt thanks go to all who have contributed directly or indirectly to the MH17 mission of DVI Malaysia. Last, but not least, we would like to express our gratitude to all individuals who have rendered their tireless effort in the preparation

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Foreign Affairs Malaysia, the National Registration Department and

of this book; to I-PPerForM UiTM for funding assistance, and to the Malaysia Society for DVI for its support. Special thanks go to Professor Dr Nor Zaidi Mohd Daud, Director of UiTM Press, and his team for facilitating the publication of this book and Cik Natassya Ezzaty Mohd Sabri for her efficient secretariat contribution to the Steering Committee. To the numerous other individuals who have given their input, thoughts, effort, appraisal and expertise into making this book a reality, we thank you.

Acknowledgements

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Working Committee, Steering Committee Editorial Board

WORKING COMMITTEE

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Datuk Dr. Mohd Shah bin Mahmood - Chairman Senior Consultant Forensic Pathologist, Former Director of IPFN and Forensic Medicine National Advisor, Ministry of Health and MH17 DVI Commander (Medical).

Dr. Norhayati binti Jaffar Forensic Odontologist Head of Forensic Odontology Services, MOH Forensic Odontology Unit, Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Dr. Mohamad Azaini bin Ibrahim Senior Consultant Forensic Pathologist and Forensic Anthropologist, Director, Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara (IPFN), Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Dr. Hairuladha bin Abdul Razak Forensic Odontologist Forensic Odontology Unit, Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Dr. Ahmad Hafizam bin Hasmi Forensic Pathologist Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara, Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Maj. Gen. Dato’ Dr. Mohd Ilham bin Haron Consultant Forensic Odontologist Head of Forensic Odontology Services, MAF

Dr. Khoo Lay See Forensic Science Officer – Secretary Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara Hospital Kuala Lumpur Mr. Lai Poh Soon Forensic Science Officer Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara Hospital Kuala Lumpur Professor Datin Dr. Hapizah binti Md Nawawi Director and Principal Fellow Professor and Senior Consultant in Chemical Pathology and Metabolic Medicine, Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Centre of Excellence, UiTM

Col. Dr. Wan Azmil bin Mohamed Annuar Restorative Dental Specialist & Forensic Odontologist Forensic Odontology Services, MAF Maj. Dr. Muhammad Noorazam Farhan bin Mohd Sajalli Forensic Dental Officer Forensic Odontology Services, MAF Pn. Nurzeti binti Abdul Ghafar Senior Lecturer Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, UiTM Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Azhar bin Abd Jamil Director Creative Media & Technology Hub Faculty of Arts and Design, UiTM

Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Yusmiaidil Putera bin Mohd Yusof Consultant Forensic Odontology and Senior Fellow Faculty of Medicine and I-PPerForm, UiTM Associate Professor Datin Dr. Mansharan Kaur Chainchel Singh Consultant in Forensic Radiology and Senior Fellow Faculty of Medicine and I-PPerForm, UiTM

Chapter One PrefaceSteering Committee Editorial Board Working Committee,

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

STEERING COMMITTEE

Editorial Board

Professor Datin Dr. Hapizah binti Md Nawawi - Chairman I-PPerForM, Centre of Excellence, UiTM

Professor Datin. Dr. Hapizah binti Md Nawawi I-PPerForM, Centre of Excellence, UiTM

Datuk Dr. Mohd Shah bin Mahmood Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara, Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Professor Ts Dr. Ruslan bin Abd Rahim Dean, Faculty of Arts and Design, UiTM

Dr. Mohamad Azaini bin Ibrahim Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara, Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Professor Dr. Othman bin Ismail Dean, Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, UiTM

Professor Ts Dr. Ruslan bin Abd Rahim Dean, Faculty of Arts and Design, UiTM

Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Yusmiaidil Putera bin Mohd Yusof Faculty of Dentistry and I-PPerForM, UiTM

Professor Dr. Othman bin Ismail Dean, Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, UiTM

Associate Professor Datin Dr. Mansharan Kaur Chainchel Singh Secretary Faculty of Medicine and I-PPerForM, UiTM

Associate Professor Dr. Mohd Yusmiaidil Putera bin Mohd Yusof Faculty of Dentistry and I-PPerForM, UiTM

Dr. Khoo Lay See Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara, Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Associate Professor Datin Dr. Mansharan Kaur Chainchel Singh Secretary Faculty of Medicine and I-PPerForM, UiTM Dr. Khoo Lay See Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara, Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Working Committee, Steering Committee Editorial Board

Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Azhar bin Abd Jamil Creative Media & Technology Hub, Faculty of Arts and Design, UiTM Pn. Nurzeti binti Abdul Ghafar Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, UiTM Pn. Hamidah binti Abd Kadir Akademi Pengajian Bahasa, UiTM

Chapter One

Preface

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Foreword

Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah Director-General of Health, Ministry of Health, Malaysia

he dreadful tragedy of the Malaysian Airlines MH17 in 2014 caused worldwide outrage as Malaysians were still grappling with the mysterious disappearance of MH370 a few months earlier. Two hundred and ninety-eight passengers and air flight crew from ten countries had fallen victim to a tragic incident in Ukraine on the 17th of July. Malaysians and the world at large mourned and shared their grief with the family members of the victims.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

The MH17 Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) Operation led by the Dutch Government marked a new beginning for the Ministry of Health (MOH) as the first international forensic humanitarian mission by the MOH Forensic Medical Service. A team of Forensic Pathologists and Forensic Odontologists was mobilised together with the Forensic Odontologists from the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), Royal Malaysian Police (RMP), and DNA specialists from Kimia Malaysia to carry out the DVI Operation of the MH17 tragedy in the Netherlands. I shared my pride along with fellow Malaysians in the marvellous role played by our DVI team in the mission entrusted by the government, the people of Malaysia and the international communities to restore the identities of those killed in the MH17 tragedy and subsequently returned them to their loved ones. Congratulations to the secretariat of the MOH Forensic Medical Service, the MAF, and Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) for their hard work, dedication, and successful publication of this memoir. Aside from commemorating the astonishing contributions of the agencies involved, I hope this book will serve as a homage to the memory of the victims as well as a reference to the DVI communities and public. Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Noor Hisham Abdullah Director-General of Health, Ministry of Health, Malaysia

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Foreword

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Foreword

Professor Ts. Dr Hajah Roziah Mohd Janor Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International) (exercising the functions of the Vice-Chancellor) Universiti Teknologi MARA

he downing of Flight MH17 enroute from Amsterdam to Kuala Lumpur on 17 July 2014 will forever be etched as one of the deadliest airliner shoot-down incidents in recent memory, sending ripples across the world, more so for Malaysia who had grappled with the loss of Flight MH370 just a few months earlier.

That incident saw Malaysia’s Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) team, made up of experts from various disciplines, rising to the occasion to deal with the challenge of working collaboratively with their international counterparts to identify the victims under stringent INTERPOL guidelines. I want to thank the Malaysian DVI team for a job well done and upholding the good name of Malaysia on their first international forensic humanitarian mission. Moving forward, I would like to congratulate the National Institute of Forensic Medicine (IPFN), Ministry of Health Malaysia and one of Universiti Teknologi MARA’s (UiTM) Centres of Excellence (CoE), the Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM) on the joint publication of this book. The contents within these pages serve as an experience to be shared with other DVI teams in future missions.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

As we remember and honour the lives lost in this tragedy, we are also reminded of the hard work and expertise in the ensuing investigation and the collective effort to bring closure to the families whose loved ones tragically were gone too soon.

At the same time, in our pursuit of shaping lives and transforming the future, we at UiTM are cognisant of the current and future direction of DVI research to facilitate forensic work. Hence, we will continue to contribute and make progress associated with processes and knowledge pivotal for DVI, especially in developing drone technology as a key tool for disaster preparedness and risk management. Ultimately, I am confident that the collaborative effort by all concerned parties will be further strengthened as we continue to be a force for good in our respective fields and our wider community. Thank you. Professor Ts. Dr Hajah Roziah Mohd Janor Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International) (exercising the functions of the Vice-Chancellor) Universiti Teknologi MARA Chapter One

Foreword

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Foreword

YBhg. Professor Prof. Dr Mohd Nazip Suratman Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)

ongratulations to the National Institute of Forensic Medicine (IPFN), Ministry of Health Malaysia, and one of our Centres of Excellence (CoE), the Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA, in publishing this book as an initiative to commemorate the MH17 tragedy. The book is an evidence of synergistic and collective efforts by both institutions, which can give benefits to the society.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

On another note, the Malaysian Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) team had risen to the occasion and made the whole nation proud of their first international forensic humanitarian mission. More significantly, UiTM researchers have manifested their expertise to developing and utilizing the drone technology as a critical tool for disaster preparedness and risk management. This technology can open a new path for the current and future DVI research in their forensic work. With the concerted efforts to include the science and research perspective, this book can be a future reference for the younger generations. I hope that this collaboration could be further expanded and would be a benchmark for other research centres. Thank you. YBhg. Professor Prof. Dr Mohd Nazip Suratman Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation)

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Chapter One

Foreword

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter One

Foreword

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Preface

Datuk Dr. Mohd Shah bin Mahmood Senior Consultant Forensic Pathologist, Former Director of IPFN and Forensic Medicine National Advisor, Ministry of Health and MH17 DVI Commander (Medical), DVI Malaysia

HE end, when it came, was swift and violent. It was July 17, 2014 as Flight MH17 was cruising at 33,000 feet when the BUK missile exploded above the left flight deck. The blast caused extensive damage and within moments, the aircraft broke apart in mid-air and there were no survivors.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

The National Security Council immediately mobilised the DVI Malaysia team comprising the Royal Malaysian Police, Ministry of Health, and Malaysian Armed Forces to fly to Ukraine. This would be its first international deployment. Critical to the investigation were the ‘black boxes’ as they were integral in piecing together the airliner’s final moments. A covert team of 12 men was tasked to enter Donetsk with the mission to recover the black boxes and the victims’ remains. The odds were against their favour as the aircraft had crashed in Donetsk, an area controlled by separatist forces. Numerous military checkpoints were everywhere and getting in and out of Donetsk would be extremely dangerous. Finally, the black boxes and remains of the victims were secured by the covert team. The black boxes were flown to Farnborough in the United Kingdom for analysis and the victims’ remains were flown to the Netherlands for examination by multiple international DVI teams. Now, seven years after the MH17 tragedy, the real story can finally be shared from the perspective of the DVI Malaysia team and this book has taken two years to complete. It tells the story of sacrifice, determination and professionalism during one of the nation’s darkest days. Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood

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Chapter One

Preface

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Preface

Professor Datin Dr. Hapizah binti Md Nawawi Chairman Steering Committee and Editorial Board, The MH17 Book Project Director and Principal Fellow, I-PPerForM Universiti Teknologi MARA

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

even years have passed since the MH17 disaster which brought grief to many nations including Malaysia. I recall the devastating moment with the initial news received in Ramadhan 2014, as we supported our Malaysian DVI team colleagues, in preparation for their professional task in the Netherlands for a scope of duties which was then, full of uncertainties. This book was written with the concerted effort of a multidisciplinary team, primarily from the IPFN, Ministry of Health Malaysia and I-PPerForM, one of UiTM Centres of Excellence (CoE), in collaboration with the Faculty of Arts and Design, Academy of Language Studies and other national agencies. This book took almost two years to be completed, with the many challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. We were inspired to complete this book of public interest to share the experience of the Malaysian DVI team in their first international humanitarian mission in the Netherlands, including their unique, daring experience in Ukraine in the acquisition of the much soughtafter aircraft black box. It is hoped that this book, prepared from the perspective of our Malaysian DVI team, will emerge as one of the pivotal reference materials on this historical national tragedy, for our future generation. It serves as a documented experience of DVI international mission which can be shared with others. Subsequent to this tragedy, DVI research in Malaysia has evolved, including utilisation of smart drones and gathering information using state-of-the-art technology, for rapid and efficient acquisition of primary and secondary identifiers, warranted in DVI. Professor Datin Dr Hapizah Md Nawawi

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Chapter One

Preface

Chapter One Preamble

Prof Datin Dr Hapizah Md Nawawi Dr Mohamad Azaini Ibrahim Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter One

Preamble

he story of the 2014 MH17 tragedy has a great impact on the global and Malaysian aviation history. The news of the airplane crash, shot down with 298 passengers and crew on board, stunned the world at large. Malaysia was particularly devastated; having yet to recover from

the trauma of the loss of flight MH370, not five months earlier. Only one micro consolation made the MH17 disaster slightly more bearable – the crash site was known, and the remains of the victims recoverable. And this was where the journey of the MH17 Malaysian Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) team began. This book chronicles and documents the series of events that took place from 18 July to 18 August 2014, the one-month period when DVI Malaysia, a team consisting of personnel from the Ministry of Health Malaysia (MOH), the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), the Royal Malaysian Police (RMP), Kimia Malaysia (KM) and other international agencies, was involved in the management and implementation of DVI operations for the MH17 crash. The untold story of the aircraft black box retrieval from Ukraine by the Malaysian team, in a unique albeit highly risky experience in Ukraine, was also shared in this book. In addition, this book provides insights to the general public on the conventional workflow of DVI, and the incorporation of modern DVI methodologies in increasing the efficiency of victim identification process. Current advancement in collecting and analysing the primary identifiers such as the digital capture of fingerprints, modern sequencing method for DNA analysis,

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

applications of artificial intelligence and equipment to conduct dental profiling, was also briefly discussed. This tragedy, has also indirectly triggered a nidus, leading to a progression of DVI research in Malaysia, which is explicitly discussed in this book. Gathering information within the 48-hour golden rule is challenging but important to ensure a rapid and efficient acquisition of primary and secondary identifiers for the identification and release of the bodies of the victims to their families. The use of aerial unmanned vehicle (UAV) or drone technology in DVI is an area of intense research interest. In DVI, smart drone utilisation encompasses aspects of geomapping, autonomous piloting, acquisition of high resolution photos, facial recognition, thermal sensing system and weight carrying capability. Utilisation of state-of-the art technologies in DVI may assist early work by the first responders, hence facilitating the later work of the forensic experts to be more efficient and effective. Forensic information and knowledge has also been developed to be a useful tool for disaster preparedness and risk management. It is important for future studies to address the efficiency, cost-effectiveness and social benefits of the drone assisted technology in DVI. It is hoped that the photographs, narratives, and brief introduction on the DVI protocol and technology in this book will become a legacy for the future generation. This book also serves to commemorate the earnest services and contributions of all the agencies involved, in identifying and bringing back home remains of the victims to their grieving families, culminating in pacifying ultimate closure.

AINE

ur are feared dead.Chapter Early reports say the Boein Two from Amsterdam.Introduction Pro-Russian separatists and joins Malaysians in expressing shock. 2 &3

Dr Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi Dr Khoo Lay See Lai Poh Soon Col. Dr Wan Azmil Mohamed Annuar Dr Hairuladha Abdul Razak

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Introduction

n 17 July 2014, flight MH17, a Malaysia Airlines

(MAS) carrier in airworthy condition, departed from Schiphol International Airport in Amsterdam, the Netherlands at 1320 UTC. The Boeing type 7772H6ER aircraft with the registration identification

9M-MRD was carrying 283 passengers and 15 flight and cabin crew members, heading for the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Malaysia. The National Bureau of Air Accident Investigation of the Ukraine (NBAAI) was notified by the Ukrainian State Air Traffic Service Enterprise (UkSATSE) that communication with the flight crew had been lost at 0600 UTC on 18 July 2014. Later, it was confirmed that Flight MH17 had crashed in Hrabove, Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, approximately 50km from the Ukraine-Russia border. The MH17 aviation tragedy involved victims of many nationalities. The passengers of the aircraft were made up of citizens of the Netherlands

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Chapter Two

(193), Malaysia (43), Australia (27), the Republic of Indonesia (12), the United Kingdom (10), the Federal Republic of Germany (4), Belgium (4), the Republic of the Philippines (3), Canada (1) and New Zealand (1). There were no survivors. The devastating occurrence took place over an open farmland southwest of the quiet village of Hrabove, a tragic consequence of an armed civil conflict ongoing at the time in Ukraine, between armed separatists groups and the Ukrainian armed forces. The wreckage and parts of the aircraft came down in an area that was under the control of the separatist [1], a fact that would make the DVI Malaysia’s mission to retrieve the remains of the victims doubly complicated.

Chapter Two

Introduction

Chapter Three

Pre-Deployment Preparation

Maj Dr Muhammad Noorazam Farhan Mohd Sajalli Dr Hairul Adha Abdul Razak Associate Prof Dr Mansharan Kaur Chainchel Singh Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood Maj Gen Dato’ Dr Mohd Ilham Haron

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter Three

Pre-deployment Preparation

pon news of the crash and further information on the situation, the Malaysia National Security Council (MNSC) received instructions from the then Prime Minister of Malaysia to

hold a coordination meeting discussing the necessary preparations for the delivery of the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance Rescue Team (SMART) to the disaster area. The deployment would also involve other agencies for various assignments: for coordination and search and recovery, DVI, news and information coverage, as well as management and repatriation of the human remains. In view of the scene being located in an area of conflict, the military and security

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control forces were also called upon to participate in this mission. The mission was to be led by the Secretary of the MNSC, acting as the Head Coordinator [2]. Flow Chart of the MH17 Tragedy International Mission

Chapter Three

Pre-Deployment Preparation

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

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The Malaysian DVI team members at the KLIA Departure Hall before the flight to Ukraine.

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The Malaysian Armed Forces at the KLIA Departure Hall before the flight to Ukraine.

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter Three

Pre-deployment Preparation

Hospital Kuala Lumpur Team

The Malaysian DVI team members at the KLIA Departure Hall before the flight to Ukraine.

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Ministry of Health DVI teams from Hospital Kuala Lumpur and Hospital Serdang at their respective departments ready to be deployed.

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Hospital Serdang Team

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Chapter Four

Preliminary Arrangement in Kiev Dr Mohamad Azaini Ibrahim Dr Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi Lai Poh Soon Col Dr Wan Azmil Mohamed Annuar Dr Norhayati Jaffar

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter Four

Preliminary Arrangement in Kiev

total of 116 personnel were deployed to Kiev, Ukraine on 18 July 2014 to commence the search and recovery mission and the subsequent forensic investigation aspects in Hrabove, Donetsk. This number comprised the coordinating team from NSC, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Civil Aviation

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Authority of Malaysia (CAAM, previously known as the Department of Civil Aviation, DCA), the SMART team, the media coverage team, the Royal Malaysian Airforce Special Force (PASKAU), the Armed Forces Religious Affairs Corps (KAGAT) and the ad hoc DVI team [2]. Twentyfour members of the Malaysian DVI team was led by the Head of Forensic Medicine Services of the Ministry of Health Malaysia, Datuk Dr Mohd Shah bin Mahmood, assisted by Maj. Gen. Dato’ Dr Mohd Ilham Haron from the MAF, Dr Mohamad Azaini bin Ibrahim as the Head of Forensic Anthropology, Dr Ahmad Hafizam bin Hasmi as the Head of Forensic Pathology, and Dr Norhayati bt Jaffar as the Head of the Forensic Odontology team. The DVI Malaysia team arrived in Kiev, Ukraine on 19 July 2014, which happened to be during the fasting month of Ramadan that year. Upon arrival, the Commander of DVI Malaysia, Datuk Dr Mohd

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

116 personnel were deployed to Kiev, Ukraine on 18 July 2014 to commence the search and recovery mission and the subsequent forensic investigation aspects in Hrabove, Donetsk. Shah Mahmood, was immediately requested to attend a meeting at the Ukrainian Parliament to discuss the challenges of getting into separatist-controlled Donetsk to recover the remains of the MH17 crash victims and also to retrieve the black box and personal belongings. In accordance with paragraph 5.1 of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) Annex 13, in the case of an aviation accident, the it and be responsible for the conduct of the investigation. However, the State also has the right to delegate the investigation or part of it to another State by mutual arrangement and consent [3]. In the case of the MH17 crash, the government of Ukraine had requested the Netherlands to conduct the investigation and this was formally agreed upon in writing on 23 July 2014. The National Coordinator for Security

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State where the incident takes place shall launch an investigation into

and Counterterrorism (NCSC) under the Ministry of Security and Justice of the Netherlands had appointed the National Forensic Investigation Team known locally as Landelijk Team Forensische Opsporing (LTFO), to be the coordinator of the MH17 DVI operations. The operations were an international multidisciplinary cooperation headed by LTFO as DVI commander and assisted by the German Federal Criminal Police Office and the Metropolitan Police, United Kingdom as Deputy DVI Commanders. The countries of Malaysia, Belgium, Australia, New Zealand and Indonesia, were involved in the DVI operations.

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Preliminary Arrangement in Kiev The Malaysian team arrived in Kiev, Ukraine on 19 July 2014 prior to the decision made by the governments of Ukraine and the Netherlands to shift the DVI operation to the Netherlands. A monumental task awaited them. From this group, six personnel returned to Malaysia after completing their task in Kiev, Ukraine. The arrival of the Malaysian DVI team at the Kiev Airport, Ukraine was welcomed by the Malaysian Ambassador, His Excellency Mr. Chuah Teong Ban.

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First discussion among members of the Malaysian DVI team at President Hotel.

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The Malaysian DVI Team with the then Minister of Transport Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Liow Tiong Lai (front row 4th from right), Investigator-incharge of Malaysian ICAO Annex 13 Safety Investigation Team for MH370, Dato’ Ir Kok Soo Chon (front row 3rd from right) and an official from CAAM (previously known as DCA) responsible for the black box transportation from Kharkiv, Ukraine to AAIB UK, DCP Dato’ Mohd Rafique Ramli Ariffin (last row) at President Hotel, Kiev, Ukraine.

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Final briefing at the President Hotel during iftar, on the last day before departure to the Netherlands.

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A sombre morning in Kiev

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Chapter Five

Covert Mission in Donetsk Ukraine Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood Maj Gen Dato’ Dr Mohd Ilham Haron

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

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Covert Mission in Donetsk, Ukraine

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t 8 a.m. on the second day in Kiev, 4. Col. Dr Mohd Hafizi Abdullah, Emergency Physician, MAF Datuk Dr Mohd Shah, as well as Maj. Gen. Dato’ Dr Mohd Ilham, Head of 5. Lt. Col. Nazri Musman, KAGAT, the Malaysian Forensic Odontology team, was MAF called for an urgent meeting with Col. Mohd Sakri Husin, Chief Assistant Secretary to the 6. Maj. Muhammad Mustafa Omar, MNSC. Following direct instructions from the PASKAU, RMAF then Prime Minister YAB Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak, an ad hoc undercover 7. Maj. Dr Mohd Zainizam Zainal, team was formed to cross into Donetsk on a

covert mission: to receive the black box and retrieve the remains and personal belongings of the MH17 crash victims from the separatist faction. The mission was to be entirely confidential, undisclosed even to close family members of the team. Twelve members were selected to join the mission, with Col. Mohd Sakri as the leader. They included the following: 1. Col. Mohd Sakri Hussin (MNSC Assistant Secretary as Team Leader) 2. Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood, Forensic Pathologist, IPFN, MOH 3. Maj. Gen. Dato’ Dr Mohd Ilham Haron, Forensic Odontologist, MAF

Medical Officer / Interpreter, MAF

8. Supt. Abd Rahim Abd Aziz, SMART, NSC 9. PW II Shahrizal Abu Bakar, PASKAU, RMAF 10. Sgt. U Rosli Mustafa, PASKAU, RMAF 11. Kpl. U Mohd Afendy Ahmad Zaini, PASKAU, RMAF 12. Rosli Shaari Communication Officer, NADMA The covert team members were instructed to make necessary preparations immediately, for deployment within the next few hours. Datuk

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Dr Mohd Shah could only ambivalently inform

started on the morning of 21 July, in a rented

his other DVI team members that he would be

minibus. The team had to go through ten

away for a few days in Kharkiv about 500 km

roadblocks put up by the Ukranian military

to the East, the nearest safe town from the forces, with bunkers and tanks present. At war zone, in order to identify a suitable place

2 p.m. on the same day, the last checkpoint

to set up a field mortuary if the need arose.

was reached, where the separatists were

Around 4.30 p.m. on 20 July, the twelve

the Malaysian team to their headquarters in

members of the covert team left the hotel in

an administrative building. The team was

Kiev, heading for Kharkiv, a town still under

welcomed by Alexander Yurevich Borodai,

Ukrainian control about 7 hours drive away.

former Separatist leader who was Prime

Unarmed and only supplied with bulletproof

Minister

vests, the team was somewhat downcast and

People’s Republic in 2014. A brief discussion

wary as they understood that should anything

was held between team leader Col. Mohd

undesirable happen, such as detainment or

Sakri and Borodai, with the help of the team’s

imprisonment by the Ukrainian military forces,

interpreter. In essence, the colonel negotiated

their family and the public would not have

for the handover of the black box, the remains of

any knowledge of it. The team stopped at the

the bodies and personal belongings recovered

the

self-proclaimed

Donetsk

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already waiting amidst tight security to escort

Reshetylivka petrol station to buy food and from the MH17 crash site to be brought back later proceeded to break their fast at around

to Kharkiv, and for the air investigation team to

9 p.m. in their travelling vehicles. Throughout

be given access to the crash site.

the journey, Col. Mohd Sakri was constantly in communication with the then Prime Minister to At 6 p.m. on the same day, the team was brief him on the latest situation and for further

given permission to visit the MH17 crash

instructions. The team finally arrived in Kharkiv

site. The journey was made to the location,

at approximately 12.30 a.m. the next day and

but when nearing the site, it was noted that

stayed overnight at a budget hotel.

the separatist tanks initially lined up neatly

The journey to Donetsk, 250 km from Kharkiv, on the road shoulder started moving away

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hastily into the surrounding forest area. Soon, A letter of agreement was signed by both the Malaysian convoy was approached by a

parties, stating that the black box, personal

separatist military vehicle directing the team to

belongings and the recovered remains of the

turn around and leave the location as several

MH17 crash victims (placed in refrigerated

Ukrainian fighter jets had been detected flying

coaches in Torres) were to be handed over to

in the area’s airspace.

the Malaysian team. Besides, the investigation team would be given access to the crash site to

The convoy regrettably had to turn back conduct air accident investigation. The official Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

without

seeing the crash site.

Back in

ceremony for handing over the black boxes

Donetsk, the team was taken to a hotel to took place at 1 a.m. on 22 July, attended by attend a meeting with the separatist faction

the international media and telecast ‘live’.

and the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE). Malaysia was

At 3 a.m. on 22 July, the team hurriedly

once again represented by Col. Mohd Sakri.

boarded a train at the Donetsk railway station, amidst cautions against possible ambush by

Unfortunately, the negotiations at this meeting

snipers. The team members were assigned

failed as the separatists only agreed to hand

the sleeper coach located at the front part of

over the remains of the victims, personal

the carriage, while the refrigerated coaches

belongings and the black boxes to the

were located at the back of the carriage. In all,

Malaysian team but not to the OSCE. The

the train carried 282 body bags and 87 plastic

Malaysian team was subsequently brought

parcels containing the belongings of the crash

to an administrative building for further

victims. It made a stop at the Ukrainian border,

negotiations. After another two hours of

where the Ukrainian military boarded to carry

discussions, the separatists unconditionally

out an inspection on the passenger coaches.

agreed to the requests from Malaysia.

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The train arrived in Kharkiv at 11 a.m. on crash victims from Kharkiv to the Netherlands. 22 July and was once again subjected to an

After an overnight stay in Kharkiv, the team

inspection by the Ukrainian forces. Inquiries

was to board a flight carrying the remains of

were made as to who was in possession of

the victims to the Netherlands on the morning

the black boxes, but the team denied any

of 23rd July.

knowledge of their whereabouts. In the end, the black boxes were safely handed over by A ceremony was held in respect of the bodies Mohd Rafique Ramli Ariffin, the accredited

and two aircrafts were consigned to fly to the

representative for the MH17 Investigation

Netherlands. The Malaysian team boarded

Team, at the Kharkiv rail yard. Dato’ Mohd

the C-17 Globemaster III belonging to the

Rafique was then flown to Kiev where he

Australian military which took off at 2 p.m.,

delivered the black boxes to the then Director

while the Netherland’s Charlie 130 took flight

General of the Malaysian Department of

earlier at noon. The two aircrafts arrived at

Civil Aviation, Dato Seri Azharuddin Abdul

the Eindhoven Airport, the Netherlands, at

Rahman. The black boxes were then handed

the same time around 6 p.m. An elaborate

to the Dutch Safety Board where preparations

official ceremony was held as a send-off for

were made to send them for analysis at the

the remains of the crash victims as they were

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Col Mohd Sakri to Senior Police Officer, Dato’ of the crash victims at the Kharkiv airport,

Air Accidents Investigation Board (AAIB) taken on a sombre procession of hearses to headquarters in Farnborough, the United

the Korporaal van Oudheusdenkazerne, a

Kingdom. Meanwhile, back at the Kharkiv

military camp in Hilversum. The next stage

Railway Station, Datuk Dr. Mohd Shah and

of the journey was also about to begin for the

Maj. Gen. Dato’ Dr Mohd Ilham were informed

Malaysian DVI team.

that they were required to accompany the transportation of the recovered remains of the

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Covert Mission in Donetsk, Ukraine On the way from Kiev to Kharkiv, a 500km journey by land

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The 12 members of the Malaysian covert team tasked to enter Donetsk, a town controlled by the Separatists

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Covert Mission in Donetsk, Ukraine On the way from Kiev to Kharkiv, a 500km journey by land

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One of the many Ukraine military check-points on the way from Kharkiv to Donetsk 30

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Taking a short break at one of the petrol stations in Reshetylivka.

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Getting ready to continue the journey to Donetsk by mini bus after switching from two MPVs

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Picturesque sunflower fields along the journey to Donetsk

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Covert Mission in Donetsk, Ukraine The effects of war - damaged tanks by the roadside

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Ukraine Military check-point

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Covert Mission in Donetsk, Ukraine Journey from Kharkiv to Donetsk

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A destroyed bridge, one of the many constructions wrecked in the armed conflict between Ukraine and the Separatists.

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Meeting the Separatist Prime Minister, Alexander Yurevich Borodai

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Col. Mokd Sakri Hussin, the Malaysian covert team leader in communication with the then Prime Minister, Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak.

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The covert team members in Donetsk

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A Separatists tank seen along the route heading to the MH17 crash site

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The view from the Separatists administrative building, where the sound of on-going bombings can still be heard

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Breaking fast at a hotel in Donetsk, while waiting for the meeting between the Separatists, OSCE and Malaysian representatives.

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The official handing over of the two MH17 black boxes to the Malaysian covert team, telecast ‘live’ at 1 a.m on 22nd July

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Covert Mission in Donetsk, Ukraine Signing the official handing-over document of the MH17 black boxes. Col. Sakri making a press statement after receiving the black boxes.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17 50

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Journey from Donetsk to Kharkiv by train

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Datuk Dr Mohd Shah in a cabin of the train carrying the covert team together with the black boxes and victims’ remains on the journey from Donetsk to Kharkiv

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Journey by train from Donetsk to Kharkiv, bringing along the black boxes and body bags from the MH17 tragedy

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Arrival of the train at Kharkiv Railway Station from Donetsk, carrying the MH17 remains together with the Malaysian covert team

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The Malaysian SMART team members at the Kharkiv Railway Station

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Arrival in the Netherlands Handing over of the MH17 black boxes in Kiev by Dato Seri Azharuddin Abdul Rahman to the Dutch Safety Board

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Checking in at the Kharkiv Airport for the flight to the Netherlands

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The Australian Globemaster III aircraft carrying the MH17 crash victims to the Netherlands

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Loading the MH17 crash victims’ coffins onto the aircraft

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The MH17 crash victims’ coffins well-secured in the aircraft

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The Australian Globemaster III aircraft carrying the MH17 crash victims to the Netherlands

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The Netherlands’ Charlie 130 aircraft carrying the MH17 crash victims to the Netherlands

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Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood accompanying the MH17 victims’ remains on the flight to the Netherlands

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The reception ceremony upon arrival at the Eindhoven military airfield, the Netherlands

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Coffin bearers standing by to receive the remains of the MH17 victims during a ceremony in the Netherlands

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Maj. Gen. Dato’ Dr. Mohd Ilham Haron communicating with an Australian military personnel

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Datuk Dr. Mohd Shah Mahmood and Maj. Gen. Dato’ Dr. Ilham Haron accompanying the MH17 victims flight from Kharkiv to the Netherlands

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Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood Dr Mohamad Azaini Ibrahim Dr Khoo Lay See Maj Dr Muhammad Noorazam Farhan Mohd Sajalli Dr Norhayati Jaafar

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The Malaysian team members (from left to right) Dr Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi, Dr Norhayati Jaffar and Dr Mohamad Azaini Ibrahim after meeting with the Dutch DVI authorities at Landelijk Team Forensische Opsporing (LTFO) Headquarters on 23 July 2014. They negotiated and secured a role for the Malaysian DVI team as active participants in the DVI operations.

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DVI Operations in Hilversum, the Netherlands

he first DVI Malaysia team departed

the identification process of the victims, the

from Kiev on 22 July 2014 to Vienna,

Head of Operations, Arie de Bruin, was soon

and from there on to Schiphol airport in convinced of the team’s capabilities and

Amsterdam. Representatives from the team, preparedness to contribute to the operations. Dr Mohamad Azaini Ibrahim, Dr Norhayati

The

understanding

Jaffar and Dr Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi, firstly

between the Malaysian and Dutch teams came

met up with LTFO officials to discuss the role

to characterise the relations between the two

of DVI Malaysia in the coming operations.

countries and from then on assisted greatly in

Although the Dutch team was initially reluctant

the ease of the operations. Communication

to let DVI Malaysia participate actively in

between the two was made even easier with

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and

mutual

respect

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The first DVI Malaysia team departed from Kiev on 22 July 2014 to Schiphol Airport Dr Azaini’s ability to speak fluent Dutch and the Dutch’s competent English. On the evening of 23 July, the first batch of the victims’ remains arrived at the Eindhoven military airfield from Kiev. A solemn ceremony and following that the remains were taken in a convoy of hearses to KvOK in Hilversum where DVI operations were to take place. The KvOK barracks is the ideal facility to be entrusted to house the victim identification operations under the command of the Ministry

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in honour of the victims was held at the airfield

of Defence of the Netherlands. The ministry worked hand in hand with the Dutch National

Overview of the DVI Center in KvOK in Hilversum Map of the military Airport Eindhoven and Hilversum A view of the military barracks which became the team’s accommodation for the duration of the DVI operation.

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Forensic Identification Team, the LTFO and both are responsible for the welfare of the personnel and the maintenance of the facility of the DVI operations. Built as a training center for the Military Medical Services the barracks have an in-house medical facility and readily available equipment and space which are centrally located within its compound. Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

In addition, all forensic specialists and DVI teams can be accommodated in this facility with essential necessities provided, including individual

rooms

with

wifi,

self-laundry

services, a cafeteria, adequate numbers of vending machines and travel transportation upon request. Datuk Dr Mohd Shah and Maj. Gen. Dato’ Dr Mohd Ilham arrived at the military camp later in the evening and with the arrival of the rest of the DVI Malaysia members, the team was ready to start the main task at hand: the identification of the victims.

Facility layout of the Korporaal van Oudheusdenkazerne, Hilversum DVI Centre: Autopsy hall Mobile cold storage body containers at the parade square of Korporaal van Oudheusdenkazerne, Hilversum Mobile postmortem CT scanner near the entrance of the DVI Centre Hall

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DVI Operations in Hilversum, the Netherlands International

DVI

teams

assembled

for

the first time on the morning 24 July, in an auditorium at the camp, followed by a trial run in the mortuary. It was then found that the formaldehyde level in the coffins were high and exceeded the European standards level. This meant that DVI team members would have to with respirators as they work, to prevent exposure to toxic gases. The makeshift mortuary building was flanked on one side by an area holding the body containers where all the coffins were kept. An equipment storage area was located here too.

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don full Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Between these was a mobile unit containing a CT scanner through which each and every coffin will pass before arriving at the ‘front office’ where postmortem numbers are given to the remains. Here photographs will be taken of each coffin and of each bag containing body parts. The front office sat just outside the front door of the building. An organized and neat system was set up where bodies come and go through one door, and working personnel through another.

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Arie de Bruin, Head of Operations, briefing the International DVI team members of the task ahead.

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he interior of the building itself was roughly divided into two unequal sections from one end of the building

to the other by way of movable barriers. The narrower section was the Criminal Investigations section where every piece of evidence found during the autopsy that may have a bearing on the criminal part of the

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investigation would be analyzed. The larger section, taking up approximately four-fifths

intact bodies would go to either line 1 through

of the building was allocated for the actual

4 while body parts to line 5. The body would

identification process. Four ‘lines’ were initially

first land on the fingerprints table where the

set up, each line consisting of five tables

police DVI teams would lift the fingerprints

arranged end to end. The first table was the

if the prints were still viable. After that was

fingerprints table, the second was the personal

done the body would then be transferred to

effects and belongings documentation table,

the second table where the victim’s clothes,

the third for autopsy and DNA sampling,

personal effects and whatever else he had on

the fourth table for dental examination and

him would be photographed and documented

the last table was for quality control. There

in meticulous detail.

was a fifth line which would be manned by the Malaysian team (the Indonesian team After this work was completed, the body would joined them a couple of days later) where all be taken to the third table where a pathologist non-intact remains or ‘body parts’ would be

would record the external injuries and sample

analyzed. As soon as the coffins entered the

a piece of suitable bone for DNA analysis. For

building (after being CT-scanned) its contents body parts whatever tissue deemed suitable would be photographed and then brought to

for DNA analysis would be taken. The three

‘triage’ where it would be decided which line

Malaysian pathologists together with the

the remains would go to. Intact or relatively

other pathologists had earlier conferred in a

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Postmortem dental and fingerprint data were uploaded into the PlassData software Forensic DNA samples were stored in the specimen refrigerator.

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DVI Operations in Hilversum, the Netherlands

The portable handheld dental x-ray was a practical instrument during the DVI process and was used by all the Forensic Odontology teams Quality control checking postmortem data in the INTERPOL DVI forms.

meeting chaired by the chief pathologist of the

forms. Once the forms have been checked for

Dutch team, Dr George Maat. A consensus

data completeness, clarity and accountability,

was reached on the main objective of the

the body will be put back in its coffin and sent

process which was to identify the victims and

back to the body storage container.

no full autopsy was to be done, except for certain cases. The second to last examination

During the first few days of the operation small

table was the Odontology table where the problems surfaced in terms of infra-structure victim’s teeth would be examined, charted

and procedure and workflow but the Dutch did

and x-rayed before the body would land at the

an admirable job of attending to and solving

end of the line, waiting for quality control to

these problems in the quickest time possible.

check the data entered into the postmortem

The Malaysian team worked together with

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DVI Operations in Hilversum, the Netherlands DVI teams from several countries besides the Netherlands, including the United Kingdom, Belgium, Australia, Germany, New Zealand and Indonesia. The team’s days in the camp followed a routine. Breakfast in the cafeteria was followed with a short briefing by team leader Datuk Dr Mohd Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Shah (usually done in front of the main door of the barracks) and then the short walk to the mortuary. Their ID cards would be scanned by the firm but friendly military police at the checkpoint and they would head towards the tent where the disposable white PPE coverall suits were kept. Once in the suits they would go to an adjacent tent where they would don boots and masks, and the day’s work began. The whole team worked hard, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day, including Saturdays and Sundays. They were happy to do the work; cleaning up at the end of the day always gave them a sense of satisfaction that some remains will be on their way to be formally identified.

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The Malaysian team worked together with DVI teams from several countries besides the Netherlands, including the United Kingdom, Belgium, Australia, Germany, New Zealand and Indonesia.

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DVI Operations in Hilversum, the Netherlands While all this was going on in Hilversum, an equally

The teams also took blood samples from the next of kin

important task was being conducted by the antemortem

for comparison DNA analysis. To their credit, it was a

(AM) team back in Malaysia headed by Dato’ Dr. Zahari

mission accomplished for the team within the first week of

Noor and Dr Nurliza Abdullah. This team was assigned to

the operation. The ante-mortem data was then reconciled

get as much information as possible about the victims of with the postmortem data (findings gathered during the

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the tragedy from the next of kin (NOK) in Malaysia. This

autopsy in Hilversum) during the Reconciliation phase of

information includes medical and surgical history, dental

the operation to look for positive matches, especially in

visits, any distinguishing marks on the deceased’s body

terms of fingerprints, dental records and DNA profiles. An

and whatever the victim may wear or have on his body. In

improvement to the postmortem data entry was introduced

short, anything that can help to identify the victim.

during the first week of August. Where previously the

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The AM team in deep discussion - they did an outstanding job in gathering AM data in a short period of time

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“the postmortem examination to confirm the positive identity of the victims before handing over the remains to the heirs or next of kin” postmortem data had to be written on the pink postmortem forms at the postmortem table and later transferred into the PlassData software, they could now be fed straight away into the software without manual forms. When a match is made, a report will be Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

drawn up and presented to the Identification (ID) Commission for endorsement. The Identification Board, made up of representatives from each country involved in the tragedy, started convening in the second week of the operation to confirm the positive identity of the victims before handing over the remains to the heirs or next of kin. Body release protocols were drafted by the Dutch. Documents related to the victims were identified and approved by the Board of Identification, and handed over to the local Dutch relatives via police liaison officer and respective embassies to be transported to their loved ones in respective countries.

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The Forensic Odontology team at the station. All collected evidence was double-checked by two personnel for thorough examination.

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A common sight after the examination is completed: gathering around the station’s computer terminal for the PlassData software entry (and calibration among examiners).

Dr. Mohamad Azaini Ibrahim and Dr. Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi performing anthropological examination.

Malaysian DVI team all geared up in their PPE and getting ready for their daily work.

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Changing area before and after the DVI work

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The Malaysian team after DVI work was done for the day.

A deserved rest and short break in between the DVI procedures

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The Malaysian DVI team members with their international DVI counterparts including the Netherlands, Belgium, Australia and Indonesia.

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A moment of silence in remembrance of the victims of the tragedy during the Flower Ceremony attended by the DVI team members from all affected countries.

n the evening of 4th August an official Flower Ceremony was held, the highlight of which was the laying of wreaths at the foot of a flag mast of each country that had victims in the

tragedy. With the Malaysian team standing stoically behind him, Datuk Dr Mohd Shah performed the solemn duty on behalf of the team and the country. The postmortem process officially ended on 12 August, and up to then 15 Malaysians had been positively identified.

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On 8 August, 14 members of DVI Malaysia departed from Hilversum to Malaysia and ten days later the rest of the team followed. It was undoubtedly a mission accomplished. Eventually all 43 Malaysian victims of the tragedy were formally identified and repatriated home. According to the Dutch Safety Board investigation report published in October 2015 [1], the summary of the autopsy results of the crew members in the cockpit shows that the Captain and First Officer sustained multiple fatal injuries associated with the impact of metal fragments moving at high velocity. On the other hand, the majority of the crew and passengers seated in the cabin suffered multiple fractures consistent with the in-flight disintegration of the aeroplane and ground impact. The serious injuries suffered by the occupants were probably fatal and the impact on the ground was not survivable.

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Wreaths and toys left by the public at the entrance of the KVok in remembrance of the victims

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Official visit by the then Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Sri Mohd Najib bin Tun Abdul Razak (31 July 2014) to the Netherlands

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Official visit by the then IGP of Malaysia, Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar (6 August 2014) to the Netherlands

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Appreciation dinner hosted by the Prime Minister of Malaysia during his official visit to the Netherlands

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At the Embassy of Malaysia in Den Haag, the Netherlands during Eid ul-Fitr

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Eid ul-Fitr prayer at the Embassy of Malaysia Den Haag, the Netherlands (28 July 2014) attended by DVI team members and officials from the Management of the Deceased team, Datuk Hj Mohd Ajib Ismail and his delegates from JAKIM

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Datuk Mohd Ajib Ismail (3rd from right) with JAKIM’s team for Management of the Deceased

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Official visit by the then Minister of Health of Malaysia, Datuk Seri S. Subramaniam (30 July 2014) to the Netherlands

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Official visit by the then Malaysian AG Chambers led by Tan Sri Abdul Gani Patail (27 July 2014) to The Hague, the Netherlands

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Mission accomplished: Goodbye the Netherlands!!!

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Dato Dr Zahari bin Noor arrived to take his place in the ID Board as the Malaysian representative.

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Repatriation ceremony of the remains of the Malaysian victims

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Dr Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi Lai Poh Soon Maj Gen Dato’ Dr Mohd Ilham Haron Col Dr Wan Azmil Mohamed Annuar Dr Norhayati Jaafar

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he first batch of the remains of the

For members of DVI Malaysia, who flew back

MH17 crash victims arrived home at

home some days prior, it was a poignant end

the Kuala Lumpur International Airport

to an unforgettable experience. Meanwhile,

(KLIA) on 22 August 2014, a little over a the Identification Board seating was still onmonth after the tragedy. At the Bunga Raya

going to take care of the final identification

complex of the KLIA, the next of kin joined the

process, with a few Malaysian DVI team

then Malaysian Prime Minister and his wife to members selected as experts to represent receive the victims in full military honours. It

Malaysia in Hilversum. In due course, the rest

was a day of mourning for Malaysia.

of the remains reached home in batches, their arrival spanning over 3 months, and the DVI Malaysia’s involvement in the MH17 story finally came to a close.

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Team DVI Malaysia’s arrival at KLIA

Following that, a series of special appreciation ceremonies for all the DVI Malaysia team members were organised by the then Malaysian Prime Minister at the federal administrative capital, Putrajaya. An official visit was made by the then Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony John Abbott on 6 September 2014. Another courtesy-cum-official visit to Malaysia was made by the then Dutch Prime Minister, Mark Rutte on 5 November 2014 to meet his Malaysian counterpart.

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The reception ceremony in honour of the victims of the MH17 tragedy at Kompleks Bunga Raya (22 August 2014)

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The reception ceremony in honour of the victims of the MH17 tragedy at Kompleks Bunga Raya (22 August 2014)

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TRANSCRIPT OF THE THEN PRIME MINISTER’S SPEECH DURING THE DUTCH PRIME MINISTER’S VISIT ON 5 NOVEMBER 2014

e call on all nations concerned to provide the fullest cooperation so that we will be able to gather

irrefutable evidence as to what happened and especially as to who were responsible for this unforgettable incident.

individually because I wanted to have a sense of the grief that they were feeling, the sadness that they were experiencing. I felt for them and that was when I decided that I will do whatever needed to help find those responsible. At that time the geopolitical situation in that region was very precarious. The plane was shot down in an area controlled by the separatists. They were in possession of the wreckages, they were in possession of the bodies and they were in possession of the black boxes. I had to make a very difficult and tough decision. Unprecedented in Malaysian history to negotiate with the head of the separatists. It is not conventional diplomacy. It was not out of disrespect for the Ukraine government. It was with the sole intention of recovering the bodies and the black boxes. I couldn’t allow

A full closure to this incident is absolutely vital so that all the next-of-kin can continue with their lives. Therefore, the ultimate action of finding who were responsible and bringing them to book and to justice must be carried out. I took the decision to meet each family

the families to grief without having the bodies of their loved ones, given the due respect, the burial that they truly deserved. And that was when I initiated whatever I could, press whatever levers I could and as you know eventually I managed to negotiate with the leader and even then I had to make the very

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Unprecedented in Malaysian history to negotiate with the head of the separatists. It is not conventional diplomacy

difficult decision. Do I send our people in?

other foreign governments who have come in

What were the risks? For days I agonised

to assist us. I developed a very close rapport

and for nights I couldn’t sleep. But I decided

especially with Prime Minister of Netherlands,

the risk was worth it and we sent our team

Mark Rutte and the other leaders and they are

in and Alhamdulillah we managed to recover

the ones who helped us in this effort to bring a

the bodies and the black boxes. I would like

proper closure to this unfortunate tragedy. And

to thank the members of that team that went

I would also like to express our condolences

went in, they did a wonderful job, and they

MH17 from all the other countries and I hope

were very brave to go in. I would like to thank this will not deter people’s confidence in as well the members of the DVI team, the our national airlines as we move forward to forensic team from the Ministry of Health, from

recover from this very tragic incident. We are

the police, from the armed forces, from JAKIM

determined as a nation to stay together and

and many others and DCA were part of this

to do our level best. Let this incident be an

national team to do the needful and eventually

incident unforgettable in our memories but life

to bring your loved ones back home and as

must go on and move on as a nation together.

you know we did a very wonderful ceremony

InsyaAllah, we will endeavor and we will

and the best in terms of honouring them we

succeed. I would like to thank everybody and

could, the very high protocol that we accorded

not forgetting Datuk Seri Hishammuddin who

them right here and that was what we saw

was acting Transport Minister and continued

just now in the video. It was a very moving

by Datuk Seri Liow in handling this whole

ceremony but that is our tribute, our indication

management of this tragedy.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

in. I hope they are here today, the team that to their loved ones who lost their lives onboard

of our respect and our care for our citizens who lost their life totally unnecessarily in this rather tragic incident. I also would like to thank all the

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Chapter Seven

The Final Journey

Official visit by the then Prime Minister of Australia, Anthony John Abbott (6 Sept 2014)

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17 154

Chapter Seven

The Final Journey

Official visit by the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte (5 Nov 2014)

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

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Official visit by the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mark Rutte (5 Nov 2014)

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Fingerprint

Forensic Pathology DNA Analysis

Forensic Odontology

Forensic Radiology Various related Examinations

Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI Research in Malaysia

Dr Khoo Lay See Associate Prof Dr Mohd Yusmiaidil Putera Mohd Yusof Associate Prof Dr Mansharan Kaur Chainchel Singh Prof Dr Noorita Md Tahir Dr Amirul Afif Muhamat Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood Prof Datin Dr Hapizah Md Nawawi

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI research in Malaysia

Introduction

ass disasters with a large number of unidentified victims are among the biggest challenges for the police and forensic disciplines. Historical events illustrate the development

of different methods of identification which can be used in such circumstances. Identification has always been one of the most important roles of forensic experts. The INTERPOL has developed and implemented standards to allow for quality control and assurance during scientific based identification operations. One of the most

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

important requirements for victim identification is the application of international standards, which aims to promote a consistent and widely understood approach, especially in multinational DVI operations [4], such as that in the MH17 incident. A DVI team works in an interdisciplinary manner, engaging the services of experts in various disciplines, as required, to work collaboratively towards the identification of victims [5]. The core business of DVI is dealing with dead bodies or human remains whether or not they are complete bodies, body parts or skeletonised remains [6]. The structure, set up and organisation of DVI teams around the world differs, with some countries adopting the INTERPOL DVI Guide completely, while others such as Spain and Malaysia adhering to it partially. It is the norm for deployment of multiple international DVI teams from various countries to give assistance to the affected country [4] and thus the INTERPOL standards and guidelines will be adopted as a common practice for all countries to communicate

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

effectively in terms of coordinating mortuary

Act 1967. The Royal Malaysian Police have

activities among different DVI teams.

adopted the INTERPOL DVI guide as part of their investigative task during the disaster.

In the Asia region, the Korean DVI team

Thus, police responders developed a set of

adopted the INTERPOL DVI Guide, modified

their own SOP in the police organisation for

accordingly [7]. The Korean DVI team is a task the disaster investigation and management. force team which is organised when there are that,

there

are

disparities

in a single disaster. The procedures for victim

conducting DVI operations, particularly in

identification in Korea have an additional

homogenising both the police and forensic

two phases after reconciliation, i.e. identity

experts into the DVI operation. Similarly,

documentation and release of the bodies [7]. several other different agencies responsible Korea has a permanent DVI team under the

for first responders in Malaysia have engaged

National Forensic Service Korea that abide

their own SOP for search and rescue tasks

by the core principles of the INTERPOL DVI during disasters. Furthermore, it is almost Guide, where identification methods must

impossible for the forensic experts to meet the

be reliable and scientifically sound. The

first responders’ team at disaster scenes since

fundamental principle that is applied is that, all

it is not a standard practice to have forensic

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

many victims, classically more than 20 victims Following

victims have the right to be identified and must experts on-site. Consequently, the experts be treated equally during the entire DVI process

do not have the opportunity to communicate

[7]. The DVI team setup is originally within

effectively with the first responders on-site. In

the INTERPOL. Many countries including

addition, there is also a lack of guidance and

Malaysia do not have an official DVI team setup

training in dead body management provided

within the police organisation. An official DVI to first responders by the forensic experts. setup is not stipulated in the Malaysia Police

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Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI research in Malaysia

Primary Forensic Identifiers

n mass fatality incidents, it is important to identify victims rapidly and accurately before decomposition sets in. The decomposition usually commences after 48 hours, thus, making the identification

process more laborious and time consuming. This step is essential both for judicial reasons and to provide closure for family members. Human identification, however, is one of the most challenging problems especially when bodies are mutilated or even fragmented [8].

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

The human identification methods, according to INTERPOL, must be scientifically trustworthy, solid, applicable in field situations and able to be implemented in a reasonable amount of time [8,9]. Thus, identification of victims is conducted by collecting and analysing a series of scientific identifiers known as primary identifiers which include fingerprints, dental and DNA analysis.

These primary

identifiers can also be supported by secondary identifiers such as tattoos, scars, medical devices or other physically distinguishing features (Figure 1). However, in most large-scale disasters, the forensic community has moved away from relying on such contextual clues which may be subjected to errors [10]. According to INTERPOL, there are four phases of DVI process, namely: • Phase 1: Scene (processing human remains and property at the disaster site). • Phase 2: Postmortem (detailed examination of human remains in mortuary).

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evidence collection and preservation by the police responders. These include photography of the overall scene and the human remains to show location and condition of the bodies [4].

Phase, involves procedures inside a mortuary, be it an established mortuary or one which has been constructed temporarily for the operation. The examination processes and methods applied during this phase include forensic photography, Figure 1: Primary and secondary identifiers in DVI

ridgeology (fingerprinting), radiology, odontology, DNA

sampling

and

autopsy and

procedures

conventional

autopsy

virtual

• Phase 3: Antemortem (collection of missing person data from various sources).

procedures.

Forensic

• Phase 4: Reconciliation (matching postmortem and antemortem data).

examination of the human remains, property is to

radiology

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

The second phase, which is the Postmortem

autopsy

procedures

such as PMCT and x rays provide non invasive techniques in assisting DVI. In addition to the be meticulously examined, cleaned and stored. In order to collect missing persons data to match

In Phase 1, the scene processing activity needs

against victim data, an antemortem (AM) collection

to be coordinated with other personnel associated

process needs to be established, in the next

with the recovery, storage and transportation of

phase. This process can involve many complex

human remains and property as well as tasks

dimensions as the task involves interviewing

involving evidence preservation and storage [4].

families, relatives or friends to obtain sufficient

At the Scene Phase, human remains are processed

facts on a potentially deceased loved one.

and property at the disaster site are treated as 161

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI research in Malaysia

The AM team functions to collect detailed descriptions of each missing person or

Phase 1

Scene (Processing of human bodies and body parts, and personal effects at the disaster site)

Phase 2

Postmortem investigation (examining bodies and remains in the temporary morgue)

Missing Person Data

Phase 3

Antemortem investigation (Collecting missing person’AM data from various sources)

Identification

Phase 4

reconciliation (comparing AM and PM data)

Postprocessing

Phase 5

Debriefing (reviewing and reporting results)

Victim Data

potential victim, including specific details such as jewellery, clothing, or other property items as well as dental and medical records, radiographs, photographs, DNA, fingerprint and other identifying particulars [4]. The AM team will usually obtain all necessary information during the first interview.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

The function of Phase 4, the Reconciliation Phase, is to match postmortem data with antemortem data with the view to identifying the deceased [4]. In cases where there are

Figure 2: Overall phases in DVI process (Source: Chung, N.E. & Seo, J.S. 2015. Waiting and Condolence – DVI Manual. National Forensic Service: Korea DVI. ISBN: 978-89-967070-8-0)

reliable primary identifiers available, such as Teeth

are

also

considered

excellent

dental, ridgeology (fingerprints) or DNA and

postmortem material for identification with

other

identifiers which meet the requisite

enough points of agreement to get to a

standards, it is important to prepare these

significant comparison in addition to the fact

cases for presentation to an Identification

that it is the hardest tissue in the human body

Board for identity determination (Figure 2).

and is able to bear ante and postmortem

The use of fingerprints for victim identification

changes. For the use of dental records to

is often the fastest and easiest primary

identify a victim, there must be, however,

identification method in DVI work. This is

a presumed identity of the decedent so that

because fingerprints are the most commonly

AM records can be located. However, it must

used biometric identifier in passports and

be noted that obtaining dental records and

visas having been seamlessly integrated into

knowing who to contact for medical information

our daily lives, making it easy to obtain ante-

can be challenging, especially in cases where

mortem (AM) fingerprint records.

the entire family may be victims in the disaster [10].

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

DNA is a proven source of material used for identification, as a significant portion of the

Select and Recovery Unit

Temporary Morgue

Family Assistance Center

Victim Management DVI

Information Collection Unit

Forensic Examinations

genetic information contained within a cell is unique to a specific individual and thus differs from one person to the other, except in identical twins. DNA technology, therefore, is normally used in the identification of victims of mass disasters especially when there are

Personal Effects Examination

body fragments or when dental comparisons

Select Appropriate Methods

and fingerprints are not possible [9]. It can be

Forensic Odontology

concluded, thus, that primary identification methods are capable and effective for the accomplishment of victim identification in

Forensic Antropology

Result Analysis

mass disasters, either being used separately

Review Results and Make Final Decisions

Death Certificate

or in combination.

Forensic Radiology

Related Examinations

Release of the bodies

At present, the primary and most reliable means of identification are friction ridge, comparative dental analysis, and DNA analysis [4, 7], thus highlighting the fact that expert teams from forensic odontology, fingerprint and DNA experts are crucial in determining the identity of disaster victims. Unique serial numbers from medical implants may also be reliable identifiers in terms of proving identity [4, 7]. These suggest that secondary means of

identification

which

include

personal

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Collect Samples Fingerprint

DNA

Figure 3: Overall flow of victim identification (Source: Chung, N.E. & Seo, J.S. 2015. Waiting and Condolence – DVI Manual. National Forensic Service: Korea DVI. ISBN: 978-89-967070-8-0)

are as important as the primary identifiers, where useful information can be obtained [11]. An integrated approach of bringing different experts to work together is the essential and the core activity in any DVI operation (Figure 3).

descriptions, medical findings, tattoos, as well as property and clothing found on the body

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI research in Malaysia

Malaysian DVI in Perspective

xamination and identification of dead bodies are essential for the overall investigation of any disaster. They provide helpful interpretation of human factor findings as an integral

part of the whole investigation. DVI is therefore a pre-eminent tool of investigation with major medicolegal significance and judicial application. According to the ICAO

[5], participation of the DVI team is

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

recommended in investigation tasks at the accident site; tasks at the mortuary; and findings to be derived from the pathological examination. Even before the commencement of the identification of the remains, forensic investigation of human remains is to recover and examine the remains for criminal investigations particularly in armed conflicts and other situations of armed violence [12]. Driven by the observation, during the DVI operations for the Flight MH17 incident, the Postmortem Phase was divided into two main activities to cover for victim identification as well as criminal investigation [13]. As mentioned in the Dutch Safety Board Report, the crash of the Flight MH17 was not an ‘ordinary’ aviation accident as it involved detonation and in-flight disintegration above the left side of the cockpit by a weapon known as the 9N314M-model warhead carried on the 9M38-series of missiles, as installed on the Buk surfaceto-air missile system [1]. Thus, DVI has contributed in the criminal investigation involving cooperation among multi-agencies and multidisciplines in the DVI operation [5].

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On another aspect, as of current practice,

The cling film plastic wrap is easy to be used

there is no other standard method or similar by the first responders to preserve the dead storage item besides the cadaver body

body in situ as an evidence by itself. Besides

bag [14]. However, Khoo et al. [15] have

that, other evidence found at the scene such

discovered a possibility to use a new method

as personal belongings and clothing can also

for preservation of dead bodies and their

be wrapped with the cling film plastic wrap

personal belongings on-site by using a cling

with

film plastic wrap. Cling film plastic wrap is a

within the layers of wraps. The cling film

thin transparent plastic film widely used in

plastic wrap has proven to be practical to be

many sectors ranging from small household,

applied in large-scale disasters where local

commercial to industrial applications. It is

capacities are overwhelmed and cadaver

a multipurpose wrap commonly used for body bags supplies may not be sufficient to sealing food items in containers, securing

accommodate an escalating number of deaths

and protecting luggage before checking-in to

[15]. The possibility of using cling film plastic

aircraft cargo as well as wrapping of arms and

wrap as an alternative, provides a means for

stomach areas in slimming centres. These

other methods to be explored further in order

plastic wraps are also easily available at any

to preserve dead bodies during disasters.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

documentation and ID tags secured

hardware shops and they are so much cheaper compared to the cadaver body bags. During

Another issue encountered concerns the

a large scale disaster, the cling film plastic

reality that forensic experts may not be

wrap can be an alternative to cadaver body

available in the immediate aftermath of a very

bags due to its water and body fluid resistant large disaster [16]. As a result, trained first properties. It is also ideal for wrapping any

responders on-site will have to manage the

size or human remains, be it whole body, body

dead bodies, racing against time, to recover,

parts or even skeletal remains [15].

photograph as well as properly tag the dead

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Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI research in Malaysia

bodies which will then facilitate the DVI or

and collect and record data from the dead

identification process later in the mortuary

bodies [16].

[16]. Here once again the innovation of the

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

cling film plastic wrap is suitable and may be

These valuable opportunities will be lost as

easily

used by first responders during the

the bodies decompose. First responders can

‘Golden 48 hours’ rule is the first 48 hours’ post

photograph and label each body or body part

disaster to ensure collection and retention of

recovered before wrapping them up with the

information relevant for identification before

cling film plastic wrap [15]. With this early

the decomposition process commences [15].

intervention by first responders, the dead are managed in a dignified way where potential

During the recovery, proper management of identifiable characteristics can be documented the dead by first responders involves allocation

and prevented from loss, hence maximising

of a unique code to each body; taking of their chances for identification later [16]. photographs and data recording of each body as soon as practicable; placing each body in a

The correct identification and subsequent

body bag; and transporting the dead bodies to

return of the remains to their next-of-kin is

the temporary body storage [14, 16].

a crucial aspect of addressing the psychosocial needs as well as the legal aspect of the

As it may take several days or longer for the

bereaved families, allowing for proper grief

forensic experts to be mobilised, it will be

and closure.

the first responders who will have the early opportunities to take valuable photographs

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

As another option, facial recognition technology

disaster site or at a local mortuary nearby or

can form a new perspective in managing the the hospital facility of the affected area [8]. dead and facilitating human identification

The traditional DVI setup is the preparation

needs especially in large scale disasters [17].

of the mortuary where forensic experts

The conventional disaster victim identification

for further identification. In many countries

(DVI) process is conducted through the

including Malaysia and Australia, it is not

primary identifiers, namely, friction ridge

usual for forensic experts to be part of the

analysis,

forensic

odontology

and

DNA first responders’ team to give expert guidance

comparison, which have been internationally

during a disaster. On the contrary, in Korea,

accepted as the most reliable methods by besides the emergency and first responders which identification can be confirmed. The

who are the initial responders to arrive on-site,

possibility of acquiring and securing facial

there is also an advance team which joins the

photos of the disaster victims, captured within

Scene Phase immediately [7].

the first 48 hours post disaster, allows for the

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

would wait for the dead bodies to arrive

opportunity to match the faces of the victims to The advance team consists of the head of the any possible available database such as image

DVI team, a forensic pathologist and relevant

data generated at the airport immigration gate,

forensic experts to assess the extent of the

leading to positive identification [17].

disaster area, condition of the human bodies, methods to recover the dead victims, means

A conventional off-site DVI operation will be

of transportation and options for storage of the

the temporary field mortuary set up near the bodies and evidence [7].

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Emerging Issues and DVI research in Malaysia

Chapter Eight

The On-site DVI team can be mobilised to the

the disaster site, and logistic support as well

scene together with the first responders to as goods transport. manage the evidence and the dead bodies at the Scene Phase.

With the capability of the UAV, initial processing of the disaster scene can be done in real-time

To further enhance the role of the On-site DVI by quick mapping with low resolution photos

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

team at disaster sites, the use of drones or

to allow for an overview of the whole disaster

unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has been

site. The initial assessment of the site will alert

proposed to promote better response.

the first responders of any possible hazards or secondary disaster and may assist in

The

UAV

has

been

telecommunications, energy,

agriculture,

widely

mining,

used

power

surveillance

increasing the safety of the personnel.

and and

As mentioned earlier, the ‘Golden 48 hours’

construction. In relation to the management of rule is a critical factor, which refers to the dead bodies, the UAV is suggested to serve as first 48 hours’ post-disaster period, to ensure an extension of assistance for first responders

the collection and retention of information

in large scale disasters, particularly in search

relevant for identification are done well before

and recovery of the dead victims, in which the

decomposition sets in. [15].

UAV extends the senses of the responders by

this, the 3D and real-time mapping will allow

providing a bird’s eye view or geo-mapping

the position of the dead bodies to be located

of the area, real-time video, information

accurately and marked with GPS coordinate.

gathering and relaying, security and safety of

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In relation to

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

A UAV attached with a high resolution camera

In this manner, weight-carrying drones with

will enable high resolution photos to be taken

payload capacity could be considered as

from each dead body, providing important

an alternative to be used to transport print

basic information for the forensic experts.

impression index cards or buccal swabs samples taken by first responders to the

Close-up photographs of personal belongings

DVI command centre. Nevertheless, more

and secondary identifiers such as tattoos, data and research are needed before this UAV to facilitate the identification process in the mortuary later on and to document the evidence on-site within a time frame of 48 hours.

Furthermore, the latest drone

technologies can be adopted to assist DVI work to link fingerprint impressions and DNA samples taken on-site to a data centre or DVI

alternative can be conclusively utilised. Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

marks or scars can be recorded by the

command centre for immediate identification using fingerprint comparison and Rapid DNA identification method respectively.

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Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI research in Malaysia

Current and Future Direction of DVI Research

here are various aspects of DVI which are currently of intense research interest. Several research projects on DVI are ongoing globally, in the Asia-Pacific region and in Malaysia,

which hopefully will fill in the gaps in knowledge, develop new technologies, and provide some solution to problems faced in DVI. Identification of disaster victims using various methods such as the use of drones have been initiated by several investigators.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or commonly known as drones, are small aircrafts which can fly autonomously. Initially meant for military purposes, their uses have been investigated in various research for decades. Besides the UAV, drones are also known as a UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems), Remotely Piloted Vehicles (RPV) and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS). However, Restas (2015) concluded that the name “drone” is more relatable for public’s understanding instead of UAV, UAS, RPV or RPAS [18]. A scoping review pertinent to the topic has been performed by a research team from Institute of Pathology, Laboratory, and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA and the Institut Perubatan Forensik Negara (IPFN), Kuala Lumpur Hospital. This review showed a significant increase in the number of publications within the last 5 years which indicates a meaningful growth in the knowledge, awareness and popularity of drone application

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in disaster context. However, much of the existing literature is experimental and may be unreliable as the performance of the drones studied was not based on any real disaster. This study also presented that mapping or disaster management contributed the most in disaster drone research. Specifically, the technical capabilities of their drones or that such innovation is being driven by computer and software engineering or computer science that could improve the drones performance (Figure 4) . Figure 4: Drone supported disaster management to timely detect disaster victims, survivors, provide support, and notify first responders (Adapted from Furst et al. 2018)

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

majority of the studies demonstrated the

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There were limited reports on healthcare and

CBRN

health-related applications and most studies

Fatalities caused by chemical, biological, radiogical and nuclear substances

predominantly focused on transportation of medical equipment or emergency supplies. There is an extreme lack of study conducted on the use of drones post disaster for healthrelated applications. It is envisaged that with Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

sufficient development, the drone systems could be utilised vastly in many areas including chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) disaster incidents [29](Figure 5).

Chemical

Biological

Radiogical

Figure 5: Utilisation of smart drone in DVI: Recovery of victims caused by chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear substances (Source: Chung, N.E. & Seo, J.S. 2015. Waiting and Condolence – DVI Manual. National Forensic Service: Korea DVI. ISBN: 978-89-967070-8-0)

The use of more comprehensive measures

in capturing good resolution photographs

across studies is particularly identified as

for facial recognition and identification of

a gap. Such studies would undoubtedly be

secondary identifiers have been reported in

advantageous to improve the effectiveness

the study. It is envisaged that this research

of drones and their interventions especially

project will enhance the search and recovery

in disaster context. Therefore, our research

activities of DVI missions, particularly in the

team from I-PPerForM, Universiti Teknologi

development and use of smart drones with

MARA and IPFN, Ministry of Health, in regards to autonomous piloting, acquisition governmental

of high resolution photos, facial recognition,

agencies and industries have embarked

geo-mapping, hyperspectral sensing system,

on a research programme funded by the

weight

Ministry of Higher Education Transdisciplinary

supplies (Figures 6a and 6b).

collaboration

with

several

carrying

capability,

logistics

and

Research Grant Scheme (TRGS), on the use of drone technology in DVI.

Optimal Furthermore, image processing techniques

camera specifications and drone heights

will be deployed using drones with infra-red

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Emerging Issues and DVI Research in Malaysia

Figure 6a: Smart drone with high resolution camera (Courtesy of Aerodyne Group)

Figure 6b: Smart drone with weight carrying capability (Courtesy of Aerodyne Group)

high resolution thermal camera to augment

release of the bodies of the victims to their

early on-site forensic victim identification

loved ones.

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

and efficient drone-assisted technological framework incorporating field-based mortuary.

In addition, the efficiency, cost-effectiveness and social benefits of the drone technology will

terms

capability,

be assessed compared to current conventional

a high potential in securing

DVI procedures, including those involving

primary identifiers including DNA samples,

difficult-to-access sites. An improved SOP

thumbprints, and dental photos which will

for all first responders in DVI, standardised

rapidly aid DVI processes. This will be

across various national agencies, will also be

particularly helpful in gathering information

produced.

drones have

weight

carrying

within the 48-hour golden rule, facilitating opportunities for rapid identification and

On another note, the use of the digital

reconciliation, and hence expediting the

capture of fingerprints in the setting of DVI

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Emerging Issues and DVI research in Malaysia

is discussed by Johnson and Riemen [10] so that positive comparative investigations as this technology has revolutionised the

can be effectively conducted. Our research

whole science and application of ridgeology. group is currently examining the use of rapid They describe the development of fingerprint

DNA profiling for DVI using drone technology,

technology and demonstrate how the recent

with samples delivered to field and hospital

advances utilising digital fingerprint capture

mortuary.

have dramatically improved both the accuracy

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

and efficiency of the use of this methodology

The use of forensic odontology frequently plays

in the context of mass fatality investigation.

a major role in identification after many multifatality incidents. As with all applied methods,

While sometimes considered the slowest and

it is dependent on the availability of adequate

most expensive procedure to implement within

antemortem dental records together with the

the context of mass fatality investigation,

skill and methodology of the postmortem

genetic profiling is also the technology probably

examination of the structures of the dentition

undergoing the most rapid and dramatic

and surrounding tissues and finally upon

improvements and advancement over recent

effective and accurate comparison of these

years. Tillmar et al. [19] have presented an antemortem and postmortem observations. impressive introduction to the use of massive

In his comprehensive review, Forrest [20]

parallel sequencing (MPS) in the context of the has outlined not only the widespread current DNA identification of compromised biological

practice of forensic odontology in the context

samples. This is of particular importance as the

of DVI but also introduces some recent

very nature of mass fatality incidents is such

advances, many of which involve imaging

that many of the remains are degraded and/

technology, which are bringing this procedure

or decomposed and obtaining good detailed

to the forefront of efficient and accurate

DNA profiles from such samples may present

identification. In closed disaster such as

significant challenges. This technology is

tsunami and flood, the use of dental profiling

still in its infancy but it is of immense interest

through age estimation may help in narrowing

that it can be introduced at this early stage the search for potential antemortem dental

174

Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI Research in Malaysia

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

records retrieval. Studies by Mohammad et

This has been endorsed in the recent appendix

al. using artificial intelligence and machine

on the use of forensic anthropology in DVI in the

learning to estimate the dental age not only

2018 INTERPOL DVI Guide [4]. de Boer et al.

shorten the time of assessment but are also [24] have also included the value of education significantly free from subjective assessment

and training in this specialty together with

leading to machine learning innovations by

of survivors in the context of many mass

Mohd Yusof et al., contributed significant

fatality incidents. In Malaysia, training for DVI

values to the Malaysian context by assessing

first responders across relevant agencies in-

the

tandem with technological advancement is

population-specific

for

dental

age

estimation methods validation [23-26].

essential. The training should also be done in collaboration with the Medical Forensic team.

Many disasters result in the significant

Finally, Barone and Di Maggio [28] have

destruction and fragmentation of human

prepared an interesting review of ground

remains thereby making examination and

penetrating radar (GPR). Although it is a

especially identification very challenging. The

technique not frequently considered in the

role of the forensic anthropologist continues

aftermath of mass fatality incidents, it can be

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

bias by the experts [21,22]. Prior studies the advantage of including the identification

to be enhanced by the presence of ever- very useful when the investigation undertaken improving methodologies together with the

includes the exhumation of human remains,

application of significant primary and applied

particularly

research which allows this scientific approach

been interred in locations that are not well

when those remains have

to be particularly enhancing in the context of documented. Such situations could include such an investigative process. In an extensive

historical burials especially when identification

summary of the role of forensic anthropology

of those interred remains is considered to be

in DVI, de Boer et al. [27] have illustrated

desirable or necessary. The location of such

the value of quality forensic anthropological

remains is a very obvious essential prerequisite

expertise both at the scene of the disaster and

to the long process in identification.

in subsequent postmortem examination.

175

Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI Research in Malaysia

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI research in Malaysia

Summary

humanitarian

community

Furthermore, this output is tantamount to an

recognises that proper management

approach that can be used as a tool to reduce

of the dead is a key component of disaster risk, which has been part of the effort

disaster response, together with the recovery pursued under The Sendai Framework for and care of survivors and the provision of

Disaster Risk Reduction 2015-2030 and in

basic services. It must be an essential area line with the Sustainable Development Goals to consider during pre-disaster planning in

and Revolutionised Industry (IR) 4.0.

all cities or communities that value disaster Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

resilience, as well-coordinated and integrated

The use of smart drones in DVI is an area

processes of managing death in mass

of intense research interest, in terms of

disasters would never be a spontaneous

autonomous piloting, acquisition of high

response. Thus, first responders constitute

resolution photos, facial recognition, geo-

a major source which could be deployed to

mapping,

handle the dead in disasters right after the weight

hyperspectral

carrying

sensing

capability,

system,

logistics

and

rescue.

supplies.

Management of the dead body and the

Future research may also investigate the

whole DVI operation are complex team work

possible use of smart drone in CBRN disaster

activities

stakeholders.

incidents. Rapid and efficient acquisition

The early work by the first responders would

of primary and secondary identifiers is

involving

various

facilitate the later work of the forensic experts potentially helpful in gathering information to be more effective. Forensic information

within the 48-hour golden rule, facilitating

and knowledge have developed to be a

opportunities for rapid identification and

useful tool for disaster preparedness and risk

release of the bodies of the victims to their

management. This hidden discovery of the

loved ones. It is important for future studies

strength of the forensic medical sciences,

to address the efficiency, cost-effectiveness

particularly the DVI processes and knowledge

and social benefits of the drone assisted

are pivotal in the search and recovery activities

technology in DVI.

of DVI, and the safety of the first responders. 176

Chapter Eight

Emerging Issues and DVI Research in Malaysia

Chapter Nine Conclusion

Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood Dr Mohamad Azaini Ibrahim Prof Datin Dr Hapizah Md Nawawi

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Chapter Nine

Conclusion

isasters are often unexpected, causing damage of staggering magnitudes. These are events that threaten human lives and properties in a way that require swift and urgent response.

The MH17 tragedy affected not only Malaysians but also the world. The DVI operation of MH17 was a cooperative effort undertaken internationally in accordance with international standards. Tasked to carry out the solemn duties of identifying the crash victims, the Malaysian DVI team comprising various specialties and agencies

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

responded with complete commitment -- displaying professionalism, expertise and excellent cooperation acknowledged and recognised by other international DVI teams. The dedication, competence and camaraderie shown by all participating countries ensured the success of the operation. The Malaysian team’s involvement in the event fortuitously became a stepping stone to fostering future international bilateral cooperation, linkages and networking in the field of disaster victim identification. Assuredly, the DVI Malaysia’s experience of the MH17 tragedy provided valuable insights and international exposure to the team, paving the way for greater direction in strategising and improving future management of major incidents with multiple fatalities in Malaysia and abroad. More than that, however, for the 24 team members who undertook the duty trusted upon them by a nation in grief, gratification came in the form of a priceless experience, and the knowledge that the victims of the ill-fated MH17 and their families had a proper and rightful closure. May the Al-Mighty shower His Mercy and Blessings on the victims of the MH17 tragedy; May He grant patience, strength and solace to their loved ones.

178

Chapter NIne

Conclusion

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Appreciation Nokhtah Sakinah

Siapa sangka Tanpa diduga Ianya menjadi titik punca Arus penyelidikan semasa Teknologi canggih Terbangan dron dan analisa DNA diantaranya Bantu pengecaman mangsa bencana Seawal sepantas mungkin 48jam pertama Agar dapat dipulangkan ke pangkuan keluarga Disemadi di bumi negara tercinta Agar mampu bendung puncak duka Menggamit sakinah ketenangan didamba Mengakhiri bab tragedi sukar dilupa Warga Malaysia dan juga dunia

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Tragedi MH17 Tanggal Ramadhan 17/ 07/2014 Tarikh tersemat di sanubari Masih segar dalam ingatan Tujuh tahun nan lalu Nun di bumi asing Donetsk Ukraine Merentap 298 nyawa Luruh jiwa raga Menyentuh hati nurani merentas benua

Dipanjatkan doa Agar aman mereka di sana Dalam Rahmah yang Maha Esa Setiap sesuatu ketentuan NYA. Pasti ada hikmah disebaliknya. Hanya Dia yang Maha Mengetahui segala Dari Dia kita datang KepadaNYA kita pasti kembali jua. Al-Fatihah Nukilan: Hapizah Md Nawawi Kumpulan Penyelidikan DVI I-PPerForM, Kampus Sg Buloh, UiTM Malaysia 3 Julai 2021 bersamaan 23 Dzulkaedah 1442 179

Appreciation

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

References

9M-MRD BOEING 777-2H6ER Donetsk Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

17.07.2014

180

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Last Contact 13:20GMT

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Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

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3. International Civil Aviation Organization. Annex 13, Aircraft Accident and Incident Investigation. International Standards and Recommended Practices. 10th ed. Quebec, Canada: International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO); July 2010. 4. Disaster Victim Identification Guide. INTERPOL; 2018. Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Mundorff, A.Z. 2012. Integrating Forensic Anthropology into Disaster Victim Identification. Journal of Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology. 8: 131-139.

ICRC. 2013. Forensic Identification of Human Remains. Geneva, Switzerland: International Committee of the Red Cross.

Chung, N.E. & Seo, J.S. 2015. Waiting and Condolence – DVI Manual. National Forensic Service: Korea DVI.

8. Eitzen, D. & Zimmermann, A. 2012. Setting Up an Off-site Emergency Mortuary Facility (EMF) to Deal with a DVI Incident: Disaster Victim Management. Journal of Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology. 8(2): 189-193. 9. Naiara M. Gaglietti; Ricardo H. A. Silva. Primary Identification Methods and their Effectiveness in Mass Disaster Situations: A Literature Review. Arab Journal of Forensic Sciences and Forensic Medicine. 2017;1(5):576-582. 10. Johnson B.T., Riemen J. Digital capture of fingerprints in a disaster victim identification setting: a review and case study. Forensic Sci Res. 2019;4:293–302. 11. Khoo Lay See, Poh Soon Lai, Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi and Mohd Shah Mahmood. Secondary identifier for positive identification in DVI. Forensic Sci Crimino. 2016;1(1):1-3.

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12. ICRC. 2009. Missing people, DNA Analysis and Identification of Human Remains: A Guide to Best Practice in Armed Conflicts and other situations of Armed Violence. 2nd Edition. International Committee of the Red Cross. 13. Khoo, L.S., Hasmi, A.H., Aziz, S., Ibrahim, M.A. & Mahmood, M.S. 2016b. MH17: The Malaysian Experience. Malaysian Journal of Pathology. 38(1): 1-10.

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Khoo, L.S., Lai, P.S., Saidin, M.H., Noor, Z. & Mahmood, M.S. 2018. Cling Film Plastic Wrap: An Innovation for Dead Body Packaging, Preservation and Transportation by First Responders as a Replacement for Cadaver Body Bag in Large Scale Disasters. Forensic Science International. 288: 242-255.

16. Cordner, S.M. & Ellingham, S.T.D. 2017. Two Halves Make a Whole: Both first responders and experts are needed for the management and identification of the dead in large disasters. Forensic Science International. 279: 60-64. 17. Khoo, L.S. & Mohd Shah Mahmood. Application of facial recognition technology on identification of the dead during large scale disasters. Forensic Science International: Synergy. 2: 238-239.

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14. ICRC. 2016. Management of Dead Bodies after Disaster: A Field Manual for First Responders. 2nd Edition. Washington D.C.: International Committee of the Red Cross.

18. Restas, A., Drone Applications for Supporting Disaster Management. World Journal of Engineering and Technology, 2015. 03(03): p. 316–321. 19. Tillmar A., Grandell I, Montelius K. DNA identification of compromised samples with massive parallel sequencing. Forensic Sci Res. 2019;4:331–336. 20. Forrest A.. Forensic odontology in DVI: current practice and recent advances. Forensic Sci Res. 2019;4:316–330. 21. Mohammad, N., Muad, A.M., Ahmad, R., & Mohd Yusof, M.Y.P. Reclassification of Demirjian’s mandibular premolars staging for age estimation based on semi-automated segmentation of deep convolutional neural network. Forensic Imaging, 2021. 24, 200440.

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9 Appendix

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Appendix

Passenger List by Nationality No

Name

Country

Baker/Theresa

Australia

Baker/Wayne

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Name

Country

Kardia/Vickiline Kurniati

Indonesia

Australia

Lahenda/Gerda Leliana

Indonesia

Bell/Emma

Australia

Soetjipto/Jane M Adi

Indonesia

Clancy/Carol

Australia

Sujana/Wayan

Indonesia

Clancy/Michael

Australia

Supartini/

Indonesia

Davison/Francesca

Australia

Theistiasih/Yodricunda

Indonesia

Davison/Liam

Australia

Wiartini/Ketut

Indonesia

Derden/Liliane

Australia

Yuriani/Ninik

Indonesia

Guard/Jillhelen

Australia

Anthonysamy/Mabel

Malaysia

Guard/Rogerwatson (Dr)

Australia

Bintambi/Muhammad Afruz

Malaysia

Horder/Howard

Australia

Bintambi/Muhammad Afzal

Malaysia

Horder/Susan

Australia

Bintitambi/Marsha Azmeena

Malaysia

Lee/Mona Cheng Sim

Australia

Dewa/Shaliza Zaini

Malaysia

Lee/Why Keong

Australia

Foo/Ming Lee

Malaysia

Mahady/Edel

Australia

Gazalee/Ariza Binti

Malaysia

Maslin/Evie Coco Anne

Australia

Goes/Kaelamayajay

Malaysia

Maslin/Mo Robert Anderson

Australia

Jiee/Tambi Bin

Malaysia

Maslin/Otis Samuel Frederick

Australia

Jretnam/Subashni

Malaysia

Norris/Nicoll Charles Anderson

Australia

Karnailsingh/Karamjitsingh

Malaysia

Obrien/Jacksamuel

Australia

Lee/Jianhanbenjamin

Malaysia

Oreshkin/Victor

Australia

Lee/Kiah Yeen

Malaysia

Rizk/Albert

Australia

Liew/Yau Chee

Malaysia

Rizk/Maree

Australia

Mdsalim/Mohdalibin

Malaysia

Ryder/Arjen

Australia

Mula/Melinganak

Malaysia

Ryder/Yvonne

Australia

Ng/Lyetielisabeth

Malaysia

Sidelik/Helena

Australia

Ng/Qingzheng

Malaysia

Tiernan/Mary

Australia

Ng/Shiing

Malaysia

Chardome/Benoit

Belgium

Noor/Rahimmah

Malaysia

Noreilde/Jan

Belgium

Parlan/Hasni Hardi Bin

Malaysia

Noreilde/Steven

Belgium

Punjabi/Kaushalya Jairamdas (Datin)

Malaysia

Schuyesmans/Rik

Belgium

Sitiamirah/Bintiparawira

Malaysia

Anghel/Andre

Canada

Sivagnanam/Matthew Ezekial

Malaysia

Broghammer/Wilhelminalouise

Germany

Sivagnanam/Paul Rajasingam

Malaysia

Dyczynski/Fatima

Germany

Tambi/Muhammad Afif Bin

Malaysia

Ioppa/Olga

Germany

Tan/Siew Poh

Malaysia

Lauschet/Gabrielems

Germany

Teoh/Elaine

Malaysia

Gunawan/Hadiono

Indonesia

Allen/Christopher

Netherlands

Hastini/Yuli

Indonesia

Allen/Ian

Netherlands

Hendry/

Indonesia

Allen/Julian

Netherlands

Huizen/Yelena/Clarice

Indonesia

Avnon/Ithamar

Netherlands

186

Appendix

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Name

Country

Baay/Joyce

Netherlands

Bakker/Willem

Name

Country

122

Hally/Megan

Netherlands

123

Heemskerk/Geertruida

Netherlands

Bats/Rowen

Netherlands

124

Heerkens/Lidwina

Netherlands

Binda/Natashja

Netherlands

125

Hemelrijk/Robin

Netherlands

Borgsteede/Helen

Netherlands

126

Hijmans/Susan

Netherlands

Bras/Catharina

Netherlands

127

Hoare/Friso

Netherlands

Brouwer/Therese

Netherlands

128

Hoare/Jasper

Netherlands

Brouwers/Elisabeth

Netherlands

129

Hoonakker/Katharina

Netherlands

Camfferman/Anton

Netherlands

130

Hornikx/Astrid

Netherlands

Crolla/Regis

Netherlands

131

Huijbers/Pieter Jan Willem

Netherlands

Cuijpers/Edith

Netherlands

132

Huizen/Arnoud

Netherlands

Dalstra/Auke

Netherlands

133

Huntjens/Maria

Netherlands

Dang/Minhchau

Netherlands

134

Janssen/Cornelia

Netherlands

Dang/Quocduy

Netherlands

135

Jesurun/Kevin

Netherlands

Deborst/Elsemiek

Netherlands

136

Jhinkoe/Rishi

Netherlands

Debruin/Barbaramaria

Netherlands

137

Kamsma/Mattheus

Netherlands

Dehaan/Johanna

Netherlands

138

Kamsma/Qiu

Netherlands

Dejong/Annetje

Netherlands

139

Kappen/Yvonne

Netherlands

Dekuijer/Pim Wilhelm

Netherlands

140

Keijzer/Karlijn

Netherlands

100

Deleeuw/Saskia

Netherlands

141

Kooijmans/Barry

Netherlands

101

Deridder/Esther

Netherlands

142

Kooijmans/Isa

Netherlands

102

Deroo/Joopalbert

Netherlands

143

Kooijmans/Mira

Netherlands

103

Desadeleer/Christiene

Netherlands

144

Kotte/Oscar

Netherlands

104

Deschutter/Mariaadriana

Netherlands

145

Kotte/Remco

Netherlands

105

Devos/Maarten

Netherlands

146

Kroon/Hendrikrokus

Netherlands

106

Devries/Aafke

Netherlands

147

Lahaye/Johannes

Netherlands

107

Dewaal/Esther

Netherlands

148

Lambregts/Hubertus

Netherlands

108

Djodikromo/Donny Toekiran

Netherlands

149

Lange/Joseph

Netherlands

109

Engels/Lisanne Laura

Netherlands

150

Loh/Yanhwa

Netherlands

110

Ernst/Tamara

Netherlands

151

Maas/Henricus

Netherlands

111

Essers/Emma

Netherlands

152

Mahler/Emiel

Netherlands

112

Essers/Peter

Netherlands

153

Marckelbach/Lisa

Netherlands

113

Essers/Valentijn

Netherlands

154

Martens/Elizabeth

Netherlands

114

Fan/Shun Po

Netherlands

155

Martens/Sandra

Netherlands

115

Fredriksz/Bryce

Netherlands

156

Mastenbroek/Tina Pauline

Netherlands

116

Gianotten/Angelique

Netherlands

157

Meijer/Ingrid

Netherlands

117

Goes/Paul

Netherlands

158

Meijer/Sascha

Netherlands

118

Grippeling/Marco

Netherlands

159

Menke/Gerardus

Netherlands

119

Grootscholten/Wilhelmus

Netherlands

160

Meuleman/Hannah Sophia

Netherlands

120

Hakse/Annemieke

Netherlands

161

Misran/Anelene Rostijem

Netherlands

121

Hally/Davy Joseph Gerardus Ma

Netherlands

Appendix

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Appendix

187

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Appendix

Passenger List by Nationality No

Name

Country

162

Moors/Augustinus

Netherlands

163

Nelissen/Johanna

164

Nguyen/Ngocminh

165

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Name

Country

202

Trugg/Tess

Netherlands

203

Uijterlinde/Thamsanqa

Netherlands

204

Vandekraats/Lorenzo

Netherlands

Nieburg/Tim

Netherlands

205

Vandekraats/Robertjan

Netherlands

166

Nieveen/Dafne

Netherlands

206

Vandemortel/Jeroen

Netherlands

167

Niewold/Tallanderfranciscus

Netherlands

207

Vandemortel/Milia

Netherlands

168

Nuesink/Jolette

Netherlands

208

Vandenhende/Johannes Rudolfus

Netherlands

169

Oehlers/Daisy

Netherlands

209

Vandenhende/Margaux Larissa

Netherlands

170

Ottochian/Julian

Netherlands

210

Vandenhende/Marnix Reduan

Netherlands

171

Ottochian/Sergio

Netherlands

211

Vandenhende/Piers Adnan

Netherlands

172

Palm/Lubberta

Netherlands

212

Vandenschoor/Christina Anna Elisa

Netherlands

173

Panduwinata/Miguel G

Netherlands

213

Vandergraaff/Laurens

Netherlands

174

Panduwinata/Shaka T

Netherlands

214

Vanderleij/Jennifer

Netherlands

175

Paulissen/Johnny

Netherlands

215

Vanderlinde/Mark

Netherlands

176

Paulissen/Martin

Netherlands

216

Vanderlinde/Merel

Netherlands

177

Paulissen/Sri

Netherlands

217

Vanderlinde/Robert

Netherlands

178

Pijnenburg/Sjors Adrianus

Netherlands

218

Vandermeer/Bente

Netherlands

179

Ploeg/Alex

Netherlands

219

Vandermeer/Fleur

Netherlands

180

Ploeg/Robert

Netherlands

220

Vandermeer/Sophie

Netherlands

181

Raap/Hielkje

Netherlands

221

Vanderpoel/Ericus

Netherlands

182

Renkers/Jeroen

Netherlands

222

Vandersande/Paulus

Netherlands

183

Renkers/Tim

Netherlands

223

Vandersande/Steven

Netherlands

184

Risah/Daisy

Netherlands

224

Vandersande/Tessa

Netherlands

185

Ruijter/Catharina

Netherlands

225

Vandersar/Inge

Netherlands

186

Schansman/Quinn

Netherlands

226

Vandersteen/Jan

Netherlands

187

Schilder/Cornelis

Netherlands

227

Vanderweide/Frank

Netherlands

188

Slok/Gary

Netherlands

228

Vandoorn/April

Netherlands

189

Smallenburg/Carlijn

Netherlands

229

Vandoorn/Caroline

Netherlands

190

Smallenburg/Charles

Netherlands

230

Vanduijn/Gijsbert

Netherlands

191

Smallenburg/Werther

Netherlands

231

Vaneldijk/Petronella

Netherlands

192

Smolders/Maria

Netherlands

232

Vangeene/Rene

Netherlands

193

Souren/Peter

Netherlands

233

Vanheijningen/Erik Peter

Netherlands

194

Specken/Reinmar

Netherlands

234

Vanheijningen/Zeger Leonard

Netherlands

195

Stuiver/Cornelia

Netherlands

235

Vankeulen/Allard

Netherlands

196

Tamtelahitu/Charleselizadavid

Netherlands

236

Vankeulen/Jeroen

Netherlands

197

Timmers/Gerardus

Netherlands

237

Vankeulen/Robert

Netherlands

198

Tol/Cornelia

Netherlands

238

Vanlangeveld/Petra

Netherlands

199

Tournier/Hendrikjan

Netherlands

239

Vanluik/Klaas Willem

Netherlands

200

Trugg/Liv

Netherlands

240

Vanmens/Luciepaulamaria

Netherlands

201

Trugg/Remco

Netherlands

241

Vanmuijlwijk/Adinda Larasati Putri

Netherlands

188

Appendix

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Name

Country

242

Vanmuijlwijk/Emile

Netherlands

243

Vannielen/Stefan F W

244

Name

Country

277

Ayley/Robert

United Kingdom

Netherlands

278

Dalziel/Cameron

United Kingdom

Vantongeren/Jacqueline

Netherlands

279

Hoare/Andrew

United Kingdom

245

Vanveldhuizen/Anthonius

Netherlands

280

Mayne/Richard

United Kingdom

246

Vanveldhuizen/Pijke

Netherlands

281

Pocock/Benjamin

United Kingdom

247

Vanveldhuizen/Quint

Netherlands

282

Sweeney/Liam

United Kingdom

248

Vanvreeswijk/Huub

Netherlands

283

Thomas/Glennraymond

United Kingdom

249

Vanwiggen/Winneke

Netherlands

284

Wan Amran Bin Wan Hussin

250

Vanzijtveld/Frederique

Netherlands

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

251

Vanzijtveld/Robertjan

Netherlands

285

Choo Jin Leong, Eugene

252

Verhaegh/Kim Elisa Petronella

Netherlands

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

253

Vermeulen/Marie

Netherlands

286

Ahmad Hakimi Bin Hanapi

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

254

Vleesenbeek/Erik

Netherlands

287

Muhamad Firdaus Bin Abdul Rahim

255

Voorham/Cornelia

Netherlands

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

256

Vorsselman/Wouter

Netherlands

288

Mohd Ghafar Bin Abu Bakar

257

Vranckx/Eline

Netherlands

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

258

Wagemans/Hendrik

Netherlands

289

Dora Shahila Binti Kassim

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

259

Wals/Amel

Netherlands

290

Azrina Binti Yakob

260

Wals/Brett

Netherlands

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

261

Wals/Jeroen

Netherlands

291

Lee Hui Pin

262

Wals/Jinte

Netherlands

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

263

Wals/Solenn

Netherlands

292

Mastura Binti Mustafa

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

264

Wels/Leonardus

Netherlands

265

Wels/Sem

Netherlands

293

Chong Yee Pheng

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

266

Westerveld/Ineke

Netherlands

294

Shaikh Mohd Noor Bin Mahmood

267

Witteveen/Marit

Netherlands

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

268

Witteveen/Willem

Netherlands

295

Sanjid Singh Sandhu

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

269

Zantkuijl/Desiree

Netherlands

270

Menke/Mary

New Zealand

296

Hamfazlin Sham Binti MohamedArifin

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

271

Gunawan/Darryl

Philipines

297

Nur Shazana Binti Mohamed Salleh

272

Gunawan/Irene

Philipines

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

273

Gunawan/Sherryl

Philipines

298

Angeline Premila Rajandaran

274

Alder/John

United Kingdom

Malaysia Tech & Cabin Crew

275

Allen/John

United Kingdom

276

Anderson/Stephen Leslie

United Kingdom

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Appendix

189

Appendix

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Acknowledgement The Malaysia DVI Team members deployed to Holland and Ukraine from the following agencies 1. 2. 3. 4.

Ministry of Health Malaysia Malaysian Armed Forces Royal Malaysian Police Kimia Malaysia, MOSTI No. Name 1. Datuk Dr. Mohd Shah Mahmood

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Dr. Mohamad Azaini Bin Ibrahim

Dr. Ahmad Hafizam Hasmi

Dr. Ferwahn Fairis Bin Ab. Karim Dr. Kunasilan A/L Subramaniam

5. 6.

Dr. Khoo Lay See

Dr. Ahmad Danial bin Abdul Malek

Lai Poh Soon

Md Othman Bin Zakaria

10.

Zaidun bin Che Mat

11.

Razak Bin Mohd Diah

12.

Mohd Hairi Bin Senin

13.

Dr. Norhayati bt Jaffar

14.

Dr. Noraliza bt. Mohd Nor

15.

Dr. Hairuladha bin Abdul Razak

16.

Ahmad Zawawi bin Samsudin

190

Acknowledgements

Position Senior Consultant Forensic Pathologist, Former Director of IPFN and Forensic National Advisor, MOH Senior Consultant Forensic Pathologist and Forensic Anthropologist, Director of IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Forensic Medicine Specialist, IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Deputy Director III Hospital Serdang, Selangor Forensic Medicine Specialist Head, Forensic Medicine Department, Hospital Miri, Sarawak. Forensic Scientific Officer IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Medical Officer Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Serdang, Selangor Forensic Science Officer IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Assistant Medical Officer, IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Assistant Medical Officer, IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Assistant Medical Officer, Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Serdang Assistant Medical Officer, Health Clinic Beranang, Selangor Forensic Odontologist Head, Forensic Odontology Unit, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Forensic Odontologist Forensic Odontology Unit, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Forensic Odontologist Forensic Odontology Unit, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dental Surgery Assistant Forensic Odontology Unit Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Organisation Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Acknowledgement

No. Name 17. Nor Helen Binti Tkaip

Organisation Forensic Medicine Services Ministry of Health Malaysia

18.

Malaysian Armed Forces

20. 21. 22. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. 30.

Malaysian Armed Forces

Malaysian Armed Forces Malaysian Armed Forces Malaysian Armed Forces Royal Malaysia Police

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

19.

Position Dental Surgery Assistant Forensic Odontology Unit Hospital Kuala Lumpur Maj. Jen. Dato’ Dr Mohd Forensic Odontologist Ilham Bin Haron Head of Forensic Odontology Service, Malaysian Armed Forces Kol. Dr. Wan Azmil bin Wan Dental Restorative Specialist Mohamed Annuar (Area of interest in Forensic Odontology) Forensic Odontology Service, Malaysian Armed Forces Kol. Dr. Hartini Binti Idris Orthodontic Specialist Forensic Odontology Service Malaysian Armed Forces Pegawai Waren 1 Hadiran Dental Surgery Assistant bin Mispan Forensic Odontology Service Malaysian Armed Forces WO I Mohd Aidel Andria Dental Surgery Assistant Forensic Odontology Service Malaysian Armed Forces DSP Mahaya Binti Abd. DNA Analyst Rahman Royal Malaysia Police ASP Latifah Binti Abdul Aziz CSI (Audio-Video–Etching) Analyst Royal Malaysia Police Insp. Muhammad Edzrul Bin Forensic DNA Databank Malaysia System Omar Officer Royal Malaysia Police Insp. Mohd Nor Azlan Bin Forensic DNA Databank System Officer Abd Rashid Royal Malaysia Police ASP Nor Fadilah Hani Bt Forensics DNA Analyst Abu Bakar Royal Malaysia Police ASP Rohasmawati Bt Abd Crime Investigation Team Rahman Royal Malaysia Police Koperal Roy Bin Bahari Crime Investigation Team Royal Malaysia Police Mohd Izuan Othman Director of Quality and Innovation Management Division

Royal Malaysia Police Royal Malaysia Police Royal Malaysia Police Royal Malaysia Police Royal Malaysia Police Royal Malaysia Police Kimia Malaysia, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation

191

Acknowledgements

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Acknowledgement IDENTIFICATION BOARD MEMBERS (MALAYSIAN REPRESENTATIVES TO THE ID BOARD) No. Name 1 Dato’ Dr. Zahari B Noor 2.

Nor Aidora Saedon

Maj. Jen. Dato’ Dr Mohd Ilham Bin Haron

Position Senior Consultant Forensic Pathologist, Head, Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Pulau Pinang and Forensic Medicine National Advisor, Ministry of Health Director Forensic DNA Division, Forensic Science Analyst Center, Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation Forensic Odontologist, Head of Forensic Odontology Service, Malaysian Armed Forces

Date 15 Aug. - 12 Sept 2014

10 Sept - 30 Sept 2014 9 Oct - 10 Nov 2014

THE MALAYSIAN DVI ANTEMORTEM TEAM Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

No. Name 1. Dato’ Dr. Zahari Bin Noor

Organisation Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia

Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia

3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.

192

Position Senior Consultant Forensic Pathologist, Head, Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Pulau Pinang and Forensic Medicine National Advisor, Ministry of Health Dr. Nurliza Binti Senior Consultant Forensic Pathologist and Abdullah Forensic Anthropologist IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Dr. Sue Anida Binti Histopathologist, Pathology Department, Azman Hospital Tengku Ampuan Afzan Dr. Lee Juin Yih Forensic Medicine Specialist Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Serdang, Selangor Dr. Tan Ran Zhi Medical Medicine Specialist Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Sungai Buloh, Selangor Dr. Mohd Huzaifah Bin Medical Officer Abd Rahin Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Seremban, Selangor Dr. Mohd Haris Afifi Bin Medical Officer, Forensic Medicine Unit, Hospital Md Hassan Putrajaya Dr. Chandroth Navin Forensic Medicine Specialist Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Pulau Pinang Dr. Mohd Mustaqim Bin Medical Officer, Department of Forensic Medicine, Abd Ishan Hospital Pulau Pinang Mohd Rashid Bin Jaafar Forensic Science Officer, Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Tengku Ampuan Rahimah Mohd Nazri Bin Assistant Medical Officer, Department of Forensic Mahmud Medicine, Hospital Pulau Pinang Mohd Shukri Bin Wahi Assistant Medical Officer, Supervisory Unit, Institute Respiratory Medicine Hj. Azharuddin Bin Assistant Medical Officer, Supervisory Unit, Ghani Hospital Serdang

Acknowledgements

Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

No. Name Position 14. Kamaluddin Bin Khamis Assistant Medical Officer

20.

Forensic Science Officer, IPFN, Hospital Kuala Lumpur Muhammad Nazimim Assistant Medical Officer, Health Clinic Gua Bin Shamsuddin Musang Dr. Yong Wey Tyen Medical Officer, Forensic Medicine Unit, Hospital Putrajaya Mohd Ehsan Bin Manan Assistant Medical Officer, Tutor of Seremban Medical Assistant College Dr. Jamilah Binti Omar Pediatric Dental Consultant,

21.

Dr. Laila Abd Jalil

Pediatric Dental Consultant,

22.

Dr. Sutina Kohir

Oral Surgery Consultant Specialist

23.

Dr. Rosliza Parumo

Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon

24.

Dental Officer

30.

Dr. Noor Azlin Zaimun Dr. Siti Hajar Mohd Yashin Dr. Muhammad Hafiz Shamsuri Dr. Dhanya Darshinee A/P Sivamuni Dr. Muhammad Nazirul Md Yussof Thilagavathy A/P Subramaniam Iruwani Ibrahim

31.

Firhan Mustapha

Assistant Dental Officer

32.

Dr. Sathesh A/L Balasundram Maj. (Dr.) Raimi Masri B. Manap Prof. Phrabhakaran K.N. Nambiar Dr. Nor Atika Md Ashar

Oral Surgeon

Organisation Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Forensic Medicine Services, Ministry of Health Malaysia Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Oral Health Programme, Ministry of Health (MOH) Subang Jaya Medical Centre

Dentist

Klinik Pergigian Casa Dental

Professor and Senior Lecturer

A.P. Dr Mohd Fadhli Bin Khamis

Dean of Faculty of Dentistry

Faculty of Dentistry MAHSA University College Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) Pusat Pengajian Sains Pergigian, Universiti Sains Malaysia (Centre for Dental Science Studies, USM)

15.

Mohd Firdaus

16.

Mohd Hilmi Bin Saidin

17. 18. 19.

25. 26. 27. 28. 29.

33. 34. 35. 36.

Assistant Medical Officer

Dental Officer Dental Officer Dental Officer Dental Officer Assistant Dental Officer Assistant Dental Officer

Senior Lecturer

Acknowledgements

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Acknowledgement

193

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Acknowledgement

Malaysian National Agencies

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Attorney General Chambers, Malaysia Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) Immigration Department, Malaysia Kimia Malaysia, MOSTI Malaysia Malaysia Airlines Malaysian Armed Forces Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ministry of Health Malaysia Ministry of Transport National Registration Department, Malaysia National Security Council, Malaysia Royal Malaysian Police Universiti Teknologi MARA

International Agencies The Malaysian Embassy, The Hague, The Netherlands The Malaysian Embassy, Kiev, Ukraine DVI Australia DVI Belgium DVI Germany DVI Holland DVI Indonesia DVI Italy DVI New Zealand DVI South Africa DVI United Kingdom

194

Acknowledgements

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Acknowledgement

Datuk Dr Mohd Shah Mahmood Dato’ Mohd Rafique Ramli Ariffin (RMP) Datuk Mohd Ajib Ismail (Director, JAWI) Malaysian Armed Forces Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Serdang Forensic Odontology Team, Hospital Kuala Lumpur New Straits Times Aerodyne Group DVI Manual National Forensic Service Korea DVI

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Photograph Credits

195

Acknowledgements

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Index Symbols 9M38-series 49, 186, 192 9N314M-model warhead 49, 186, 192 48-hour golden rule 25, 49, 192 golden rule 49, 192 777-2H6ER 1, 3, 5, 49, 192 A accuracy 4, 196 Aircraft 49, 192 aircrafts 49, 192 Airport 49, 192 Antemortem Phase 49, 192 Armed Forces Religious Affairs Corps (KAGAT) 38 artificial intelligence 25, 49, 192, 196 Australian 49, 85, 91, 101 autonomous piloting 25, 49, 192, 194, 198 autopsy 114, 115, 118, 130, 183 Autopsy 49, 110, 192 Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

B benefits 49, 192 biometric identifier 49, 184, 192 black box 10, 21, 24, 39, 42, 46, 47, 48, 49, 192, 220 black boxes 20, 48, 49, 71, 72, 74, 75, 80, 174, 175 body 49, 192 body bags 48, 75, 187 Body bags 49, 192 briefing 43, 112, 116 Briefing 49, 192 buccal swabs samples 49, 191, 192 Buk surface-to-air missile system 49, 186, 192 C C-17 Globemaster III 49, 192 cadaver body bags 49, 187, 192 capability 49, 192 CBRN 7, 49, 192, 194, 198, 204 ceremony 49, 192 Changing area 49, 122, 192 Charlie 130 49, 93, 192 cling film plastic wrap 187, 188 Cling film plastic wrap 49, 192 coaches 49, 192 coffins 87, 89, 111, 114 Coffins 49, 192 control 49, 192 conventional DVI 49, 192, 195 cost-effectiveness 25, 49, 192, 195, 198 covert mission 46, 49, 192, 220 Covert Mission 6, 45 covert team 20, 46, 47, 51, 64, 71, 74 Covert team 49, 65, 192 Covert Team 77 Creative Media & Technology Hub 49,

196

Index

192 criminal investigations 186 Criminal investigations 49, 192 Criminal Investigations 114 CT scanner 49, 110, 111, 192 D Data 49, 192 dead 49, 192 dead bodies 49, 180, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192 Dead Bodies 203 decomposition 49, 182, 188, 191, 192 Den Haag 49, 140, 141, 192 Dental 204 dental age 49, 192, 196, 197, 204 Dental age 204 dental profile 49, 192 dental profiling 25, 196 Dental profiling 49, 192 Dental record 49, 192 dental records 118, 184, 196 dental x-ray 115 Dental X-ray 49, 192 digital fingerprint capture 49, 192, 196 disaster 17, 18, 19, 21, 24, 25, 30, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 196, 197, 198, 200, 202, 204 Disaster 1, 3, 5, 7, 16, 24, 30, 198, 202, 203 disaster response 198 Disaster response 49, 192 disasters 49, 192 DNA 7, 16, 24, 49, 114, 118, 182, 183, 184, 185, 189, 191, 192, 195, 196, 203 DNA analysis 24, 49, 114, 118, 182, 185, 192 DNA profiles 49, 118, 192, 196 Donetsk 49, 192 drone 25, 49, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 196, 198 drone research 49, 192, 193 drones 17, 18, 19, 21, 190, 191, 192, 193, 194, 195, 198, 220 drone technology 25, 49, 192, 194, 195, 196 Dutch Safety Board 49, 80, 130, 186, 192, 202 DVI 1, 3, 5, 6, 7, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 30, 31, 34, 35, 38, 39, 40, 41, 42, 47, 49, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 111, 112, 113, 114, 115, 116, 117, 118, 120, 121, 122, 123, 124, 126, 128, 129, 130, 140, 141, 148, 149, 154, 155, 175, 179, 180, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 186, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 194, 195, 196, 197, 198, 200, 202, 203, 204, 215, 220 DVI Malaysia 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20,

24, 27, 38, 49, 108, 109, 110, 130, 140, 154, 155, 192, 200 DVI missions 49, 192, 194 DVI operations 10, 24, 39, 49, 106, 109, 110, 180, 181, 186, 192, 220 DVI Operations 6, 105, 106, 107, 108, 111, 113, 115, 116, 118, 120, 122, 123, 124, 126, 128, 148, 149 DVI process 49, 115, 181, 182, 184, 192 DVI research 17, 18, 19, 21, 25, 49, 192 DVI Research 6, 192 E efficiency 24, 25, 49, 192, 195, 196, 198 Eindhoven Airport 49, 192 Embassy of Malaysia 10, 49, 140, 141, 192 Emerging 6, 49, 179, 192 European standards 49, 111, 192 exhumation 49, 192, 197 F facial recognition 25, 49, 189, 192, 194, 198, 203 fatality 49, 182, 192, 196, 197 fingerprints 24, 49, 114, 118, 182, 184, 185, 192, 195, 202 first responders 25, 49, 181, 187, 188, 189, 190, 191, 192, 193, 195, 197, 198 First Responders 203 Flight MH17 49, 192 Flower ceremony 49, 192 forensic 49, 192 Forensic 6, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 38, 39, 46, 110, 114, 115, 121, 181, 182, 183, 184, 185, 192, 194, 197, 198, 202, 203, 204, 215 forensic anthropology 49, 192 forensic examination 49, 192 forensic expert 49, 192 forensic odontology 49, 192 Forensic radiology 49, 192 Formaldehyde 49, 192 fragmentation 49, 192 Framework 49, 192 Front office 49, 192 G genetic profiling 49, 192 geo-mapping 49, 192 Golden 48 hours 49, 192 ground penetrating radar 49, 192 H high resolution camera 49, 192 high resolution photos 49, 192 Hilversum 49, 192 Hospital Kuala Lumpur 49, 192 Hospital Serdang 49, 192

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

I ID cards 49, 192 identification 49, 192 Identification 49, 192 Identification Board 49, 192 Identification Commission 49, 192 identifiers 49, 192 ID tags 49, 192 International Civil Aviation Organisation 7, 39, 49, 192 INTERPOL 7, 49, 115, 180, 181, 182, 192, 197, 202 investigation 49, 192 I-PPerForM 6, 11, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 21, 49, 192, 194 K Kharkiv 42, 47, 49, 50, 52, 60, 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79, 83, 103, 192 Kimia Malaysia 7, 11, 16, 24, 49, 192, 210, 211, 214 KLIA 7, 27, 31, 33, 34, 49, 154, 155, 192 Korporaal van Oudheusdenkazerne 49, 102, 110 Korporaal van Oudheusdenkazerne (KvOK) 49, 192 Kuala Lumpur International Airport 7, 27, 49, 154, 192 L Landelijk 7, 10, 12, 39, 106 Landelijk Team Forensische Opsporing (LTFO) 10, 12, 39, 49, 106, 192 large-scale disasters 49, 182, 187, 192 learning 49, 192 LTFO 49, 192 M machine 49, 192, 196, 197 machine learning 49, 192, 196, 197 MAF 49, 192 Malaysia 1, 4, 6, 7, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 30, 38, 39, 40, 42, 48, 49, 77, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 118, 121, 130, 135, 137, 139, 140, 141, 142, 145, 148, 149, 154, 155, 179, 180, 181, 189, 192, 197, 200, 202, 206, 209, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214, 220 Malaysian Airlines 27, 49, 192 Malaysian Armed Forces 7, 16, 20, 24, 33, 49, 192, 210, 211, 212, 214, 215 Malaysia National Security Council 7, 30, 49, 192

management of the dead 188, 198 Management of the dead 49, 192, 198 mass fatality investigation 49, 192, 196 massive 49, 192 massive parallel sequencing 49, 192, 196, 203 MH17 1, 3, 4, 5, 9, 10, 11, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 27, 30, 39, 46, 47, 48, 49, 66, 71, 72, 75, 77, 80, 85, 87, 89, 91, 93, 95, 99, 102, 103, 106, 108, 109, 112, 113, 115, 132, 133, 148, 149, 154, 157, 159, 175, 180, 186, 192, 200, 202, 203, 220 MH17 DVI operations 10, 39, 49, 192 MH17 tragedy 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 49, 75, 157, 159, 192, 200 MH17 Tragedy 16, 30 military barracks 109 Military barracks 49, 192 Ministry of Health 6, 7, 10, 14, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 35, 38, 49, 175, 192, 194, 210, 211, 212, 213, 214 mortuary 47, 49, 111, 116, 181, 182, 183, 186, 188, 189, 191, 192, 196 Mortuary 202 N negotiations 48 Negotiations 49, 192 next of kin 118, 120, 154, 174, 189, 49, 192 O On-site DVI 49, 190, 192 Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe 7, 48, 49, 192 P parallel 49, 192 Personal 49, 192 personal belongings 39, 46, 47, 48, 187, 191 Personal belongings 49, 192 Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) 111 Perubatan Forensik Negara (IPFN 10, 17, 18, 19, 192 phases 49, 181, 182, 184, 192 photographs 25, 49, 111, 184, 188, 191, 192, 194 PlassData software 114, 120, 121 postmortem 110, 111, 115, 118, 120, 130, 183, 184, 196, 197 Postmortem 7, 49, 114, 182, 183, 186 Postmortem Phase 183, 186, 192 PPE 7, 49, 111, 116, 121 primary 49, 192 primary identifiers 24, 182, 184, 185, 189, 195

Q quality 114, 115, 180, 197 quality control 114, 115, 180 R RAAF 49, 192 rapid 49, 192 rapid identification 195, 198 reception 49, 192 reception ceremony 97, 157, 159 reconciliation 181, 195 Reconciliation 118, 183, 184 refrigerated coaches 48 Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems 192 Remotely Piloted Vehicles 192 Repatriation ceremony 151 Rescue 49, 192 Rescue Team 49, 192 respirators 111 ridgeology 183, 184, 195 Royal Malaysian Airforce Special Force 38 Royal Malaysian Police 7, 16, 20, 24, 181, 210, 214 S Scene Phase 183, 189, 190 secondary identifiers 21, 25, 182, 183, 191, 194, 198 separatist 20, 27, 39, 46, 47, 48, 61 Separatist 47, 63, 66, 67, 69 smart drone 25, 194, 198 Smart drone 195 smart drones 21, 194, 198 social benefits 25, 195, 198 Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance Rescue Team 7, 30 stakeholders 198, 220 Sustainable Development Goals and Revolutionised Industry 198

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

human identification methods 49, 192 humanitarian 49, 192 human remains 49, 192 hyperspectral sensing system 49, 192

T temporary body storage 188 The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction 198 toxic gases 111 tragedy 9, 10, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 24, 25, 27, 75, 118, 120, 130, 154, 157, 159, 175, 200, 220 Tragedy 16, 30 triage 114 U UAV 25, 190, 191, 192 UiTM 4, 11, 14, 15, 16, 21 Ukraine 6, 16, 20, 21, 24, 27, 31, 33, 34, 38, 39, 40, 42, 45, 52, 59, 61, 174, 202, 210, 214, 220 Ukrainian forces 49 197

Index

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Autograph

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17 198

Autograph

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

199

Autograph

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Autograph

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17 200

Autograph

Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200 • Flight MH17

201

Autograph

The downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 on 17 July 2014 over Eastern Ukraine was a horrifying tragedy which shocked the world and claimed the lives of 298 passengers and crew from 10 countries. The purpose of this book is to specifically highlight the role and services of the Malaysian DVI team in the management and implementation of DVI operations for the MH17 crash in an international arena together with other entrusted civil and military stakeholders involved in the exercise. A chronology of the operations and documentation of the series of events with photos and time-lines are fastidiously depicted in the book, simultaneously providing awareness and education for the public in relation to DVI issues and current development surrounding it. A total of 9 chapters are illustrated commencing from the deployment of the Malaysian DVI team to Kiev, followed by the covert mission into Donetsk to retrieve the black box, to the first international DVI operations in the Netherlands, and finally closing with the return of the remains of the Malaysian victims, with an additional chapter on the use of drones in DVI. This book highlights the fact that the Malaysian DVI team is of international standard, having successfully undertaken this mission and it is our hope that this book will act as a guide to the Malaysian DVI team for future DVI exercises not only in the region but worldwide. Last but not least, it is hoped that this book becomes a legacy to commemorate the contribution of all agencies involved in fulfilling their tasks and duties to bring the victims home, thus allowing grieving and closure for the bereaved families.

Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) Malaysia: The MH17 Tragedy The Untold Story

Articles inside

Chapter 8: Emerging Issues and DVI Research in Malaysia

Chapter 2: Introduction

Chapter 9: Conclusion

Chapter 3: Pre-Deployment Preparation

Index