Forensic backlog crisis leaves SA families in despair

CRIMINAL JUSTICE COMPROMISED

- TRACY-LYNN RUITERS

SOUTH Africa is facing a deepening crisis in its forensic and crime investigation systems, with massive backlogs in autopsies, toxicology, ballistics and DNA testing leaving thousands of families in limbo and countless gun-related cases stalled indefinitely.

The delays, described by officials as the worst in years, have created a domino effect across the criminal justice system. Investigations are grinding to a halt, prosecutions are collapsing, and grieving families are left waiting years for closure.

As of August 2025, the national backlog for toxicology cases alone stood at around 40,000, according to data from the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS).

In provinces such as the Western Cape, families of gun violence victims say they face waiting times for final autopsy reports when testing is required. These delays mean that in many cases, families cannot complete funeral arrangements or settle insurance and legal matters.

For mom Megan Appolis, from Cape Town, the reality of the backlog hit hard. She told the Weekend Argus that while at the mortuary she was informed she would need to wait a bit longer to bury her son, Aiden Petersen.

Petersen, 22, was gunned down in Kensington a week ago. He had been visiting his girlfriend when unknown suspects opened fire.

The investigation is still ongoing, with no arrests made.

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness (WCDHW) however reiterated that there are no backlogs in the province's forensic pathology services, stating that all 16 Forensic Pathology Service (FPS) facilities in the Western Cape are fully operational, with each case managed carefully and with respect, ensuring the dignity of deceased persons.