National Forensic DNA Database of South Africa

[1][13][15] The Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Bill [B2–2009], dealing with fingerprints and other body-prints, was assented to in 2010 and came into effect on 18 January 2013.

[17][18][19] It addresses various concerns that arose regarding the initial bill, including those relating to human rights issues.

The offences listed in Schedule 8 may be amended after the initial implementation phase which takes into account capacity constraints.

[2][7][25] The DNA profiles in the NFDD are generated by analysing 15 different STR loci plus Amelogenin for sex determination.

Forensic DNA profiles obtained from volunteers with informed consent will be held under the Investigative Index and will be removed from the NFDD within 3 months of the case being finalised.

[7] In 2013, the FSL was investigating implementing the Combined DNA Index System, which is the database and software developed by the FBI.

[27] The DNA Act is subject to a five-year implementation plan which takes into account new training and equipment requirements.

[28][29] When the Bill is actually promulgated, only then will I breathe a transitory sigh of relief, because that will be when the real work begins.

As in Brazil, families of crime victims in South Africa have successfully campaigned for the establishment of a national forensic DNA database.