The Department of Public Works has handed over a new forensic laboratory to the South African Police Service in KwaZulu-Natal, aimed at reducing a backlog of over 27,000 exhibits. The facility is expected to fast-track forensic analysis and strengthen investigative capacity. Officials note it requires additional equipment and staff to become fully operational.
The Ministry of Police described the handover of the new forensic laboratory as a significant milestone in bolstering police capacity in KwaZulu-Natal. The facility, handed over by the Department of Public Works, will house specialised units including Biology, Chemistry, and Questioned Documents. It replaces an unsuitable building in Amanzimtoti that was in a flood-prone area.
KwaZulu-Natal's forensic services face a backlog exceeding 27,000 exhibits, contributing to national SAPS delays of around 140,000 cases reported last year. Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure Dean Macpherson stated: “The facility we handed over today will support the forensic and investigative work of the South African Police Service in KwaZulu-Natal... justice suffers.”
Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi highlighted that the lab will address bottlenecks in criminal investigations but emphasised the need for more equipment and staff. “Turnaround time is going to be reduced once we have this lab fully functional... analysts are being recruited, training is taking place,” Mkhwanazi said.
The building serves as a short-term leased solution while construction of a world-class facility continues.
