Gauteng has a backlog of 113 285 DNA and 9 757 ballistic reports

25 March 2021

The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Gauteng calls on the Gauteng MEC for Community Safety, Faith Mazibuko to urgently engage the Minister of Police, Bheki Cele and Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola, regarding the backlog of 113 285 DNA and 9 757 ballistic reports in Gauteng.

This information was revealed by Mazibuko in an oral reply to the DA’s questions in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature (GPL).

According to Mazibuko, these backlogs are a result of a shortage of consumables while six provinces are being serviced by one laboratory.

Although Mazibuko stated that she has no idea as to when this backlog will be cleared and how many cases are held up as a result of the backlog, she did however indicate that such a question should rather be redirected to the National Prosecuting Authority.

The MEC’s arrogance became clear when she further stated that “we will let you know when we let you know”.

Mazibuko clearly has very little compassion for the victims whose right to justice is being delayed as a result of these backlogs.

With a DNA and ballistic reports backlog of this proportion, there will be a delay in prosecutions, possibly leading to cases being struck off the roll due to no evidence produced in court.

Instead of giving heartless responses to pertinent questions in the GPL, the MEC must get off her high horse, and start working to bring justice to the victims.

Justice delayed is justice denied.

Issued byMichael Shackleton,DA Gauteng Shadow MEC for Community Safety, 25 March 2021