Civil rights organisation Action Society has raised alarm over forensic delays in the murder investigation of 89-year-old Ellen Malan, who was killed in her Tafelsig home more than a year ago.
Malan, affectionately known in her community as “everyone’s granny,” was found tied up and murdered in September 2024. Despite suspects being identified, forensic results remain outstanding, leaving the case stalled.
This week, Action Society submitted formal complaints to the South African National Forensic Oversight and Ethics Board (DNA Board) and the Mitchells Plain SAPS station commander, demanding urgent intervention. The group has questioned why fingerprint results sent to the Plattekloof laboratory have not been processed and why DNA samples from suspects and family members were retaken without explanation.
“These endless delays are an insult to Ellen’s memory and a second trauma to her family,” said Kaylynn Palm, Action Centre head for the Western Cape. “When evidence sits unprocessed for over a year, it is no longer a backlog; it is a collapse.”
Action Society argues that the case highlights South Africa’s broader DNA crisis and states that partnerships with private laboratories could help ease the backlog. The organisation has vowed to continue monitoring the investigation until justice is served.
VOC News
Photo: Pixabay
