Durban – The South African Police Service (SAPS) now has a brand new Forensic Science Laboratory in Mayville, KwaZulu-Natal (KZN).
Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson, alongside KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli, and Police Deputy Ministers Dr. Polly Boshielo and Cassel Mathale, have officially handed over the Forensic Science Laboratory to the SAPS.
The new laboratory is expected to enhance the SAPS’ forensic capabilities, improve turnaround times for processing evidence, and strengthen the fight against crime.
In her address, Deputy Minister Boshielo described the new laboratory as a symbol of unwavering commitment to justice, to professionalism, and to the safety and security of all citizens.
“This facility is part of a broader strategy to modernise policing, restore public confidence, and ensure that justice is not delayed – because justice delayed is justice denied,” expressed Deputy Minister Boshielo.
Providing an overview, Deputy Minister Mathale highlighted that the facility will significantly enhance capacity to respond to priority crimes, including violent crime, gender-based violence and femicide, serious organised crime, and drug-related offences.
“Let this laboratory stand as a centre where science and justice converge; where evidence speaks with authority, and where the truth prevails,” said Deputy Minister Mathale.
Premier Ntuli expressed his appreciation to all stakeholders involved in the establishment of the facility and underscored its importance in strengthening crime-fighting efforts across KZN.
Minister Macpherson emphasised that the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure remains committed to delivering critical infrastructure that will empower the police to uphold the rule of law and bring perpetrators to justice.
“The SAPS is confident that the facility will make a meaningful and lasting contribution to the fight against crime and advance the vision of a safer and more secure South Africa for all,” said police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Amanda van Wyk
The other dignitaries who attended the handover included the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Ian Cameron, KZN High Court Judge, Justice Muzikawukhelwana Thomas Ncube, the Acting Deputy National Commissioner for Support Services, Lieutenant General Simo Chamane, the Provincial Commissioner for KZN, Lieutenant General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, the Divisional Commissioner for Supply Chain Management, and Lieutenant General Molefe Fani.
