A new forensic science laboratory was handed over in Durban on Friday to support the South African Police Service in KwaZulu-Natal’s fight against crime.

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson officially handed over the KwaZulu-Natal Forensic Science Laboratory to acting Minister of Police Firoz Cachalia in Mayville, Durban.

“The facility will support investigative forensic work of the South African Police Service in KwaZulu-Natal. It brings together specialised forensic services into a single, secure and fit-for-purpose environment, strengthening the State’s ability to process evidence, support investigations and improve the integrity of the criminal justice system,” Macpherson said.

The Minister said the handover demonstrates what happens when departments work with purpose and when infrastructure is delivered to help solve crime.

“Crime is the number one enemy of South Africa’s future. A country cannot thrive when its people live in fear, that is why defeating crime cannot be the responsibility of SAPS alone. It requires every part of government to play its role,” he said.

Macpherson said his department is committed to fighting crime by delivering infrastructure that enables law enforcement to act effectively and professionally.

KwaZulu-Natal Premier Thamsanqa Ntuli said the new laboratory will enhance the accuracy and speed of forensic analysis, support criminal investigations, help secure convictions of offenders, and protect innocent individuals from wrongful prosecution.

The laboratory was previously housed in two buildings, in Amazimtoti and Durban. The Amazimtoti facility was situated in a flooding zone.

The previous facilities faced several challenges, including flooding risks that damaged evidence, lack of proper security infrastructure, limited parking for staff and visitors, maintenance issues and unsafe working conditions for specialised units such as ballistics.