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The number of annual murders in South Africa has risen 36% since 2017, but the number of experts qualified to carry out autopsies has remained relatively static with about 50 forensic pathologists working for the state in 2023.
Solving crimes is more difficult without enough forensic experts to analyse the evidence. Forensic pathologist Prof Ryan Blumenthal says the shortage can delay court cases and compromise legal proceedings. ‘Examinations may be rushed due to increased workload [which] might mean evidence is not as reliable, affecting trial outcomes.’
Gauteng and the Western Cape have 16 forensic pathologists each, whereas most other provinces only have 1 or 2. KwaZulu-Natal, SA’s second-most populous province, has 2 forensic pathologists.
In the US, official guidelines recommend that forensic pathologists perform no more than 250 autopsies annually. SA does not have similar standards in place.
Solving crimes is more difficult without enough forensic experts to analyse the evidence. Forensic pathologist Prof Ryan Blumenthal says the shortage can delay court cases and compromise legal proceedings. ‘Examinations may be rushed due to increased workload [which] might mean evidence is not as reliable, affecting trial outcomes.’
Gauteng and the Western Cape have 16 forensic pathologists each, whereas most other provinces only have 1 or 2. KwaZulu-Natal, SA’s second-most populous province, has 2 forensic pathologists.
In the US, official guidelines recommend that forensic pathologists perform no more than 250 autopsies annually. SA does not have similar standards in place.