A research team from Kindai University and the Aichi Prefectural Police in Japan has developed a rapid and highly accurate urine testing device to detect illegal drug use.
According to the researchers, the device can detect 40 types of drugs, including stimulants and cocaine, in just 3 minutes. This will enhance the efficiency of drug crime investigations.
The test results are available in 3 minutes, speeding up the investigation process. (Illustrative photo: Nova Medical Centers)
When police identify a suspect involved in drug use, they will request the suspect to undergo a urine test and detain them if the test result is positive.
Typically, urine analysis is performed by researchers at the Forensic Science Research Institute.
However, due to staffing limitations, these tests often take a long time, leading to delays in investigations.
Having worked in the Forensic Investigation Department of the Osaka Prefectural Police for 10 years, Professor Katsura Zaitsu at Kindai University stated: “Many police officers are requesting on-site urine testing.”
The conventional testing devices currently require components to separate substances in the sample, and the processing demands specialized knowledge.
In contrast, the new device can conduct tests without such components. Police officers on-site can request a test and receive results in 3 minutes, which accelerates the investigation process.
In emergency situations, the new device can also help identify health issues arising from overdoses of certain drugs and suggest appropriate treatment methods.
A joint development partner, Shimadzu Corporation, has implemented the device for practical use.
