A state-of-the-art forensic pathology laboratory in Johannesburg South, meant to alleviate severe backlogs in DNA analysis and mortuary services, remains non-operational despite costing taxpayers over R700 million and nearing completion nine years after construction began.
Project Delays and Soaring Costs
The facility, initially projected to cost R588 million in 2014, was intended to replace the overburdened Hillbrow Mortuary and house a large toxicology department to assist police with DNA-related cases. However, according to a report, the project has been plagued by delays, cost overruns, and alleged mismanagement.
Democratic Alliance (DA) Gauteng Health spokesperson Madeleine Hicklin expressed outrage over the delays, revealing that the facility was reported as 98% complete in August 2023 yet remains closed due to unresolved municipal bylaw and building standard compliance issues.
“How do we get to the end of construction only to realize the design doesn’t comply with regulations?” Hicklin questioned during an interview. “This is a gross misuse of public funds and a disrespect to citizens who rely on these services.”
Impact on Mortuary Services and Criminal Investigations
The Hillbrow Mortuary, which the new lab was meant to replace, handles 4,000 bodies annually—double the capacity of similar facilities. Hicklin described horrific conditions at Hillbrow, including clogged drains, blood on floors, rat infestations, and cases of bodies being misidentified or cremated by mistake.
The forensic lab’s non-operation also hampers toxicology reports, worsening case backlogs for the SAPS and delaying justice for victims of crimes.
Accountability Concerns
Hicklin accused the Gauteng Department of Health and the Department of Infrastructure Development of “buck-passing” with no officials taking responsibility for the delays. She also highlighted broader issues, including late payments to suppliers, with over 30,000 unpaid invoices worth R4.8 billion in the health sector alone.
Calls for Reform
The DA has demanded urgent answers from provincial officials, stressing that the delays reflect systemic failures in infrastructure project management. Hicklin emphasized that under a DA-led government, merit-based appointments, strict contractor penalties, and transparent tender processes would prevent such mismanagement.
“People are being disrespected in life and now in death,” Hicklin said. “This cannot continue.”
As Gauteng residents await answers, the R700 million facility stands idle while mortuary services remain in crisis.
