The six South Africans which were involved in the devastating flash floods in Nepal are still missing to date. Authorities have turned to DNA identification in efforts to determine their whereabouts.
The missing South Africans are Terricia Govender (33) from Isipingo, Surendranath Maharaj (74), Anitha Devi Maharaj (67), Vivaganathan “Tony” Pillay (66), Janet Pillay (56), and Bhavika Ramjee (43) from East London.
The Department of International Relations and Co-operation (DIRCO) confirmed on Thursday, 10 September that there had still been no word on the six nationals from authorities in Nepal or China/Tibet.
DNA profiles from biological relatives of the missing South Africans have now been sent to Nepalese police and Interpol in Kathmandu to assist with identification efforts. The process was initiated following a formal request from the Nepalese government, with DIRCO enlisting the SAPS Victim Identification Centre under the Division: Detectives and Forensic Services to co-ordinate the collection of samples.
The development marks a significant step in efforts to establish what happened to the six South Africans as authorities continue responding to the aftermath of the floods.
South Africa has also widened its diplomatic response, with its missions in India and China engaging authorities in those countries.
“Regrettably, there is still no confirmation from the authorities in Nepal or China/Tibet regarding any of the six South African nationals. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates to the families as more information becomes available.”
The involvement of the Beijing mission comes as South African authorities also await information from China/Tibet on the missing nationals. The department also stated that it would continue following developments and communicating directly with the affected families.
