Eastern Cape police have finally arrested a man for the rape and murder of a 5-year-old girl in 2019.
The family of five-year-old Chantelle Makwena is eventually getting justice for her rape and murder after DNA results were finally received and the results were used to arrest the alleged perpetrator.
The family has been waiting since 2019 for the DNA evidence taken from the suspect to be tested and compared with the DNA collected from their little girl. The man had been previously arrested on an accusation of rape from 2018 but was released on bail - when he allegedly raped and killed Chantelle.
This is proof that DNA evidence is critical in identifying criminals and bringing them to justice. The #DNAbacklog meant that Chantelle’s family had to wait two years for this man to be arrested.
How many more families are waiting? How many more rapes will take place whilst perpetrators roam free with their DNA awaiting analysis - the results of which would take them off the streets, saving more lives.
We need to get SAPS, the government, and the DNA Oversight Board to make good on their promises with regards to the DNA backlog turnaround plan.