South Africa's DNA labs processed over 400,000 exhibits but nearly missed every 30-day deadline
Forensic exhibit volumes and processing status; 2025/26 financial year
1.5%
of DNA profiles generated within the 30-day target
238 707
total DNA profiles generated during the period
3 471
profiles meeting the mandatory 30-day turnaround
South Africa's forensic DNA laboratories finalised more exhibits than they received in 2025/26, yet a substantial outstanding workload persisted. Near-total non-compliance with the prescribed turnaround timeframe points to a systemic capacity crisis requiring urgent management intervention.
Daily Maverick · Source: DNA Board, 2025/26 Annual Report (supplied data)
