Pretoria – DNA profiles from the biological relatives of the six South African nationals still unaccounted for after the devastating flash floods in Nepal have been sent to that country.
The Nepal floods struck on 26 August 2026, triggered by a glacier collapse in the Himalayas that sent torrents of water, ice, and debris into the Bhote Koshi–Trishuli river system.
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As of 10 September 2026, the Nepal floods have killed at least 1 377 people and more than 5 000 remain missing, according to official disaster authorities.
Rescue operations are ongoing, with thousands displaced and international aid mobilised.
In an update on the search and rescue mission, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) today, Thursday 10 September 2026, confirmed that six South African nationals are still unaccounted for.
In response to a formal request from the Nepalese government, DIRCO said it has arranged with the South African Police Service (SAPS), specifically the Victim Identification Centre under the Division: Detectives and Forensic Services, for the collection and coordination of DNA profiles from the biological relatives of the missing individuals.
“The DNA profiles have been sent to the police in Nepal and to Interpol in Kathmandu,” DIRCO said.
South African diplomatic missions in New Delhi, India, and Beijing, China, are also liaising with their respective host countries in an effort to coordinate the response to this disaster.
“Regrettably, there is still no confirmation from the authorities in Nepal or China/Tibet regarding any of the six South African nationals,” said DIRCO.
“We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to the families as more information becomes available.”
