What Happened in the Investigation of the Madrid Bombings With the Fingerprint Evidence?

By Anna Duncan

In March 2004, a series of bombings took place in Madrid, Spain, killing 191 people and injuring over 2,000. The Spanish authorities were quick to launch an investigation to identify the perpetrators of the heinous terrorist attack. One of the key pieces of evidence that helped in the investigation was a fingerprint found on a bag containing detonators and explosives.

The Fingerprint Evidence

The fingerprint was found on a plastic bag that contained detonators and explosives that were used in one of the trains that was Targeted in the attack. The bag was discovered by a police officer who was investigating another unexploded bomb at the station.

The Spanish authorities quickly realized that this fingerprint could be crucial in identifying the person or persons responsible for the bombings. The print was analyzed and compared to prints on file from known criminals and suspects, but it did not match any of them.

The Breakthrough

Spanish investigators then turned to international databases and found a match with an Algerian man named Daoud Ouhnane. Ouhnane had been arrested in connection with an attempted bombing at a high-speed train station near Madrid just two days after the attacks.

Further investigation revealed that Ouhnane had fled Spain following the Madrid bombings and had been living in Italy under a false identity. Italian authorities were able to track him down and arrest him based on Spain’s request for extradition.

The Trial

Ouhnane was one of several suspects who stood trial for their involvement in the Madrid bombings. His defense argued that his fingerprint could have been on the bag before it was filled with explosives and detonators, but this argument was dismissed by forensic experts who testified during the trial.

Ultimately, Ouhnane was found guilty of terrorism charges related to his involvement in both the attempted bombing at the high-speed train station and his role as an accomplice in planning and carrying out the Madrid bombings. He was sentenced to 18 years in prison.

Conclusion

The use of fingerprint evidence played a crucial role in the investigation and eventual conviction of Daoud Ouhnane for his involvement in the Madrid bombings. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of forensic science and international cooperation in fighting terrorism and bringing those responsible to justice.