Crash inquiry enters forensic phase

The inquiry into the June 2024 Chikangawa plane crash that killed former Vice President, Saulos Chilima and eight others is set to move into forensic investigations.

This follows as the Parliamentary Ad-Hoc Committee on the Chikangawa Plane Crash Inquiry has announced that it will soon commence forensic pathology investigations as part of efforts to establish facts surrounding the crash.

In a press statement issued by the Committee’s Chairperson Walter Nyamilandu Manda, the Parliament has engaged South African forensic pathologists Dr. Robert Gabriel Ngude and Dr. Wilson Sibusiso Ntsele to lead the process.

According to Manda, the preparatory phase will involve reviewing existing post-mortem reports, identifying gaps in evidence, engaging bereaved families, and assessing Malawi’s capacity in DNA, toxicology and mortuary services.

The Committee said the forensic work will be done in phases, and may include possible exhumation of remains subject to legal clearances and family consultations.

Manda assured that the process will respect cultural and religious considerations and safeguard the dignity of affected families.

He also indicated that updates will be provided through press releases at each milestone.