Mole guns in Turkey in 2003-2005

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Ballistics
• Toxicology

Background:

• Mole guns are improvised firearms not intended for human use.
• Despite their design, mole guns pose a significant risk of injury and death.
• Their prevalence in forensic casework necessitates a detailed examination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the frequency and characteristics of mole guns encountered in Turkey.
• To analyze the types, manufacturing, and geographical distribution of these devices.
• To document cases involving injuries and fatalities caused by mole guns.

Main Methods:

• Examination of 11 mole guns submitted to the Council of Forensic Medicine of Turkey (2003-2005).
• Evaluation of gun type, barrel count, caliber, rifling, design, mechanism, and legality.
• Analysis of geographical origin and manufacturing methods (handmade vs. manufactured).

Main Results:

• Ninety-one percent of examined mole guns were 12-gauge.
• Most mole guns originated from the Inner Anatolia region.
• The majority of mole guns were found to be handmade.

Conclusions:

• Mole guns represent a distinct category of improvised firearms encountered in forensic investigations.
• Their prevalence, particularly in Inner Anatolia, highlights a regional issue.
• The study underscores the lethal potential of these devices, necessitating awareness and further research into their forensic implications.