Workers at state mortuaries in the Northern Cape are facing a growing crisis as unclaimed and unidentified bodies overwhelm facilities, creating health risks and operational challenges. Mortuary staff, who declined to speak on camera, described the situation as “concerning,” citing severe staff shortages and deteriorating working conditions.

Since 2024, provinces across South Africa have struggled with a backlog of unclaimed bodies in state mortuaries. In some cases, bodies have reportedly remained uncollected since as far back as 2014. Regulations stipulate that unidentified bodies can be given a proper burial after 30 days, but delays in police investigations—such as pending blood and tissue sample results—often prolong the process.

“The problem is that these bodies are unclaimed, and we can’t keep them forever because more people [keep arriving],” said one official. Workers also highlighted the unbearable stench in facilities, with one describing the environment as “rotten” and emitting a “very bad smell.”

In August 2024, reports revealed that over  were held in forensic pathology facilities nationwide, with  being the hardest hit. Authorities say they are engaging with stakeholders to expedite investigations and identify the deceased, but the backlog continues to strain resources.

The Northern Cape health department has yet to issue an official statement on the matter. Meanwhile, mortuary workers warn that without urgent intervention, the crisis could worsen, posing further risks to both staff and public health.