The Use of Forensic Detection Dogs as a Tool for Crime Detection and Criminal Evidence in Islamic Jurisprudence

Abstract

This study examines the use of police dogs as a contemporary means of proof in Islamic jurisprudence and its relationship to the juristic maxim “Means take the ruling of their objectives” (al-wasāʾil lahā ḥukm al-maqāṣid). The objective of the research is to clarify the legitimacy and limitations of employing modern evidentiary methods, with particular emphasis on police dogs in criminal investigations, and to assess the evidentiary value of their indications. The study begins by analyzing the linguistic and juristic meanings of the terms means (wasīlah) and objective (maqṣad), followed by an examination of the general concept of evidentiary means and their relationship to the objectives of Islamic law. Drawing upon the Qur’an, the Sunnah, and the consensus of jurists, the research highlights the significance of means in achieving legal objectives and explains their role in determining legal rulings. The study adopts a documentary and juristic analytical methodology, which includes the examination of classical and contemporary juristic sources, Prophetic traditions, and the opinions of eminent Muslim jurists concerning evidentiary methods. The findings indicate that means are subordinate to the rulings of their objectives. Accordingly, an unlawful means does not become permissible merely because it serves a lawful objective, and conversely, lawful means derive their legitimacy from the legitimacy of their intended objectives. Based on historical experiences and scientific findings, the study concludes that the use of police dogs for tracking evidence and detecting crimes may be regarded as a legitimate evidentiary aid. However, exclusive reliance on their indications is not permissible, and such evidence should be considered in conjunction with other forms of proof, including witness testimony, documentary evidence, and circumstantial indications.