Abstract
<title>Abstract</title> <p>Background Assaults and bodily injuries constitute a major component of medico-legal activity in sub-Saharan Africa, reflecting both the prevalence of interpersonal violence and the functioning of criminal justice systems. Objective This study aimed to analyse the epidemiological, criminological, and medico-legal characteristics of assaults and bodily injuries examined at the Regional Hospital of Labé over a twelve-year period, and to assess the role of forensic medicine in the judicial processing of interpersonal violence. Methods A retrospective descriptive study was conducted from 1 January 2012 to 31 December 2024, based on medico-legal records of victims examined upon judicial requisition. Data were extracted using a standardised collection form and analysed using EpiData and Epi Info software. Results A total of 19,050 cases of assaults and bodily injuries were recorded, representing 74% of medico-legal consultations. Victims were predominantly young adult males (mean age: 29 years). Violence occurred mainly in public spaces and homes, with a predominance of intentional acts (91%) and single perpetrators (94.39%). Injuries were mostly superficial or moderate, and blunt objects were used in 83.47% of cases. Most victims (93%) had a total temporary incapacity for work (TTI) ≤ 21 days. Conclusion Assaults and bodily injuries represent a mass criminal caseload in Guinea. Beyond their epidemiological characteristics, they highlight the central role of medico-legal expertise in the institutional capture and judicial regulation of interpersonal violence. Strengthening standardisation and prevention strategies is essential in this context.</p>