The handover of a forensic laboratory is set to strengthen in KwaZulu-Natal’s efforts to fight crime.
“The facility will support investigative forensic work of the South African Police Service [SAPS] in KwaZulu-Natal.
"It brings together specialised forensic services into a single, secure and fit-for purpose environment, strengthening the State’s ability to process evidence, support investigations and improve the integrity of the criminal justice system,” Public Works and Infrastructure Minister, Dean Macpherson, said on Friday.
The Minister officially handed over the KwaZulu-Natal Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) to the Acting Minister of Police, Firoz Cachalia, in Mayville, Durban on Friday. The lab aims to boost the fight against crime.
“Today is a big day for the people of KwaZulu-Natal, SAPS and the fight against crime. It is a day where we reiterate that the rule of law and the protection of the criminal justice system remain our number one priority,” said the Minister.
He added that the handover, which was also attended by Minister Cachalia, and the Deputy Ministers of Police among others, shows what happens when departments work with purpose and when infrastructure is delivered not just for its own sake, but to help solve crime and criminality.
“Crime is the number one enemy of South Africa’s future. A country cannot thrive when its people live in fear, that is why defeating crime cannot be the responsibility of SAPS alone. It requires every part of government to play its role.”
Macpherson said his department is committed to playing its part in fighting crime by delivering infrastructure that enables law enforcement to act effectively, professionally and with the tools required to bring criminals to justice.
“This laboratory is a clear example of that commitment in action,” he said.
Also speaking at the handover, KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli said the new laboratory will enhance the accuracy and speed of forensic analysis, support criminal investigations, help secure convictions of offenders, and protect innocent individuals from wrongful prosecution.
According to the provincial government, the laboratory was previously housed in two buildings, in Amazimtoti (which was situated in a flooding zone) and Durban.
The previous facilities faced several challenges, including flooding risks that damaged evidence, lack of proper security infrastructure, limited parking for staff and visitors, maintenance issues and unsafe working conditions for specialised units such as ballistics. - SAnews.gov.za
