DNA tests clear Kovco roommates (didn't handle the gun)

[Barrett808]

DNA tests on the two soldiers who were with Private Jake Kovco when he was fatally shot in Iraq have cleared them of having handled his gun.

NSW Police tested the two soldiers, codenamed 17 and 19, on Saturday after they were flown back to Australia from Iraq.

NSW Police had asked the two soldiers undergo the voluntary tests after unidentified DNA was found covering Pte Kovco's pistol.

The inquiry into Pte Kovco's death was told in Sydney today that the DNA on the weapon did not match that samples from soldiers 17 and 19.

(more)

http://www.news.com.au/couriermail/story/0,,19980974-1242,00.html