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Witnesses are considered one of the three basic sources of statements in the context of criminal investigations. Their firsthand accounts of events can provide crucial evidence that helps in reconstructing the sequence of events and understanding the context of a crime. Witness statements are often deemed credible because they are typically provided by individuals who directly observed or experienced the situation in question. Their testimonies can support or contradict other evidence presented during an investigation, making them essential for law enforcement and legal proceedings.
Involvement from journalists, bystanders, or family members can provide additional context or perspectives but does not carry the same weight as a witness who has direct knowledge of the incident. Witnesses' primary role is to supply accurate accounts that can facilitate a more complete picture of what transpired during the event in question, thereby helping investigators identify facts, clues, or leads that need to be explored further.