LAM crash update; DNA to help identify bodies

Work started today collecting DNA samples from families to aid with the formal identification of people who perished in the crash of a LAM Embraer passenger jet in Namibia last week.

The purpose of the tests are to return the remains and personal effects of everyone on board so their families can arrange funerals for their loved ones.

Family members in direct and close line with those on board are being asked to provide DNA samples in a process that is being conducted by a small team of fully trained, experienced professionals working to recognised international standards. They have been officially authorised, by the Mozambique forensic pathologistin Maputo, to undertake this important work.

The process will be conducted in private and will remain wholly confidential, forever. Nothing will be disclosed to anyone outside the process – the people collecting the information, the people supporting the families through the process, and the laboratory doing the analysis plus the families. No one will know what is disclosed in private during the process and we have assured the families that this is the case.

LAM is providing translators to ensure that families fully understand the process. Similarly they will ensure we can acknowledge and allay any concerns that relatives might raise.

In a statement today, the airline said: "We have also arranged for psychologists to support the families throughout the process as although the process itself is not invasive (it involves gently wiping an oral swab against the inside of one’s cheek), we appreciate that some relatives will be distressed and upset because of the very sad reason for needing this process. We are doing everything we can to support the families through this stage of the deceased’s identification process, and it is part of our continuing commitment to them."

Meanwhile, LAM has unveiled a mural to honour and remember those who died in the crash. It is located immediately outside LAM’s head office. Families jwere present at the unveiling of the mural and placed white roses and other flowers at its base as a mark of respect to those who died. This mural is a temporary arrangement to provide an early opportunity for people who want to commemorate their loved ones’ memories. " In due course, we intend to erect a permanent memorial," the LAM spokesperson said.