Zimbabwe urges families to identify deceased relatives from South Africa’s “Operation Vala Umgodi”

Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
Government has appealed to families with missing relatives or friends in South Africa, particularly those who may have lost their lives during “Operation Vala Umgodi,” to come forward and assist in the identification of the deceased.
In a statement, the director of Public Diplomacy, Communication and Advocacy in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Mrs Philisiwe Chidawanyika said it is important to identify the deceased to ensure a dignified burial for the deceased.
“We are calling upon all Zimbabweans who may have relatives unaccounted for in South Africa, especially in the affected mining areas, to come forward and provide any information that may assist in the identification process,” Mrs Chidawanyika said.
She said several unidentified bodies remain in mortuaries in South Africa following the crackdown on illegal mining activities in the Northwest Province, where Zimbabweans were among those affected.
“The Government is working closely with South African authorities to ensure that the remains of the deceased are identified, and where possible, repatriated for proper burial,” she said. “We understand this is a distressing time for many families, and we are committed to assisting them throughout this process.”
Families and friends of missing persons are encouraged to bring photographs, medical or dental records, identification documents or any distinguishing details that could help confirm identities.
The Zimbabwean Consulate in Johannesburg has been designated as the point of contact for inquiries from Zimbabweans.
Those within Zimbabwe can approach the nearest Zimbabwe Republic Police station or visit Provincial and District Social Welfare Offices under the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare.
The Government has assured the public that it is prioritising the matter and urged affected families to act swiftly.
For further inquiries, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade’s Department of Consular Services and Protection of Zimbabwean Nationals Living Abroad is available to assist.