​The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has recently been inundated with enquiries in relation to the process surrounding the identification of victims from the August 2023 tragic fire incident in Marshalltown. 

It is important that we provide further clarity as follow: 

• The Gauteng Forensic Pathology Services (FPS), which falls under the GDoH, is not responsible for the DNA processing and analysis in this case. This is the competency and responsibility of the South African Police Service (SAPS) under the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL). 

• The FPS has conducted the necessary postmortem examinations on the deceased victims. However, the DNA sampling, collection of family reference samples, and the actual DNA analysis and identification process is handled exclusively by the SAPS Forensic Science Laboratory and the Victim Identification Centre. 

• In addition, Gauteng FPS does not have any backlog in terms of postmortem examinations related to this incident. The Department has efficiently carried out its duties within its scope of responsibilities. 

• Any enquiries regarding the DNA identification process should be directed to the SAPS, as they are the competent authority managing this aspect of the victim identification process. 

Ends// 

Issued by the Gauteng Department of Health