Forensic admin nightmare leads to huge DNA case backlog

INVESTIGATIONS into the majority of rape and some murder cases are at a standstill owing to a national backlog of DNA results at the forensic laboratory services.

As of February, outstanding DNA results were at 172 787, dating back as far as April 2019.

The backlogs now stand at 208 291 cases. King Cetshwayo SAPS spokesperson, Captain Mbongeni Mdlalose said it severely hampered police investigations.

'I cannot confirm the exact number of cases, but I can say that most cases requiring forensic testing have been set back. This relates mostly to rape and murder cases, which are at a high in our district.'

Empangeni attorney Vumani Mthembu told the ZO that forensic testing previously took about six to eight weeks to process.

'Delays with results affect the victims and legal process. It is difficult for families especially involving rape cases - to wait so long.

'These delays also affect the testimony of victims who have to relive the attack.

It is challenging when a child is involved, because it is best not to have long delays so they can testify and move on to healing,' said Mthembu.

Police Minister Bheki Cele addressed the issue at the SAPS forensic science laboratories during the release of the quarterly crime statistics last Friday afternoon.

Cele admitted that forensic cases such as murder and rape are not easily solved. Previously, the minister blamed the shortage of consumables and poor contract management at SAPS.

Cele said SAPS had advertised 150 new posts for forensic analysts as staffing was one reason for the backlog. A further 128 staff members had been promoted.

'Moreover, a DNA recovery plan is in place to progressively clear the backlog. The nation can rest assured that we are working round the clock to clear the backlog, and gender-based violence cases are being prioritised.'

'To ensure we avoid a repeat of these bottlenecks, an early warning system to detect any anomalies is being developed. Most importantly, eliminating corrupt practices that once plagued the forensic division of the SAPS is non-negotiable,' Cele said.

Around R250-million has been set aside to create space for overtime and to maintain equipment. So far, 16 contracts for materials and chemicals have been signed, and seven are still being evaluated.