Thabo Bodibe 
In a significant development since its introduction in July 2023, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, alongside MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko, introduced a digital fingerprint system aimed at enhancing the identification process for deceased bodies across 11 Forensic Pathology Service (FPS) mortuaries in the province.
This state-of-the-art Gauteng forensic pathology fingerprint system has recently demonstrated effectiveness in identifying victims of the tragic inner-city fire incident in 
Johannesburg. Previously, 62 victims from this incident had remained unidentified, but a breakthrough has occurred thanks to this innovative system.
As of Sunday, 10 September 2023, 76 families have come forward to the Diepkloof Forensic Pathology Service mortuary in Soweto, reporting their missing loved ones. 
This has resulted in compiling a list containing 74 names, potentially representing those who perished in the Johannesburg inner-city fire.
The digital fingerprint system has significantly improved the quality of fingerprint data collected by employing biometric scanners and facilitating access to databases of the Department of Home Affairs, South African Police Service, and National Credit Bureau to aid in the identification process of deceased individuals.
By processing salvaged fingerprints from the deceased using this digital system, 11 more individuals have been successfully identified. This achievement brings the total number of identifiable bodies to 30, combined with the initial 12 that were identifiable from the outset. As a result, the number of unidentifiable bodies now stands at 44.
To further assist in this identification process, the South African Police Service Victim Identification Centre unit has collected 38 Antemortem swabs from the families. These swabs are being cross-referenced with DNA samples from unidentifiable bodies to reunite families with their deceased loved ones.
The Gauteng Provincial Government has proactively supported affected families by establishing a dedicated hotline. Families can make inquiries through the toll-free hotline at 0800 203 886 or reach out directly during office hours at 011 355 3048 or 011 241 5707. 
Additionally, families are encouraged to visit the Diepkloof mortuary, conveniently located at 2 Collinder Road, Berthsam, Diepkloof, Soweto (behind Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital).