Camps Bay Neighbourhood - Up To Date

The DNA Project

The DNA Project has been instrumental in pushing for the expansion of the National DNA Database to include the identity of criminal offenders and suspects through DNA profiling . An expanded database will allow the SAPS to potentially match DNA evidence retrieved at crime scenes (crime stains) with the reference profiles of known suspects on the database and therefore make it easier to identify perpetrators and solve crimes quicker.The Criminal Law (Forensic Procedures) Amendment Bill, which is one of the most important pieces of legislation in the fight against crime, contains legislation which will allow for SAPS to take the DNA reference samples. At the moment it is against the law to take a reference sample from a convicted offender.The Amendment Bill, which will change this, should be adopted during the next session of Parliament.

To use DNA profiles and evidence effectively, it is imperative that "first on scene" personnel, which could include various members of SAPS,  security companies and medics, are given DNA Awareness Training. In order to do this, the DNA Project is commissioning mobile training facilities. These mobile classrooms, will travel to police stations throughout the country to facilitate the training. They could also be used to bring DNA Awareness to the public. The DNA Project, an s 21 Not for Profit Company, will fund the mobile classrooms and training material. We are asking for assistance with the project whether it is through financial donations or 'in-kind' goods which could include a bus or truck with container which could be converted into a classroom, electronic equipment, etc.

For further information please visit the website at www.dnaproject.co.za or contact Margaret McEwan at dna.assist@gmail.com

This article applies to: Middle, Rontree 1, Rontree 2, Glen, Bakoven, Village, Clifton

Related website: www.dnaproject.co.za