DHAKA: Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of police has collected DNA samples of 30 relatives of missing persons at Dhaka Medical College Hospital for cross matching the DNA of unidentified Chawkbazar fire victims.

But families of six other victims did not come to DMCH to provide DNA samples, said Nusrat Yesmin, assistant DNA Analyst of CID on Friday (Feb 22).

Nusrat Yesmin said they will be profiling the DNA of the unidentified Chawkbazar fire victims for handing over the bodies to respective families. We have already colleted DNA samples from blood relatives of 18 victims from 11:00am. 

For cross matching, DNA samples of the unidentified bodies have already been collected during autopsy. Today, sisters or brothers of victims came to DMCH to provide DNA samples. But DNA samples of parents are required for cross matching. 

“Today we have collected DNA samples of brother or sisters. Parents have been asked to come to CID’s laboratory in Malibagh in the capital city to give DNA samples”, she added.

Asked about results of DNA test, Nusrat Yesmin said it’s completely depends on DNA sample. Usually one to three months is needed to get the results. But in this case, it can not be specified what time it takes. 

The cross matching of DNA will be done at forensic lab of CID office. After completion, the report will be handed over to police. After DNA profiling, the bodies will be handed over to families, said Romana Akhter, Special Superintendent of CID Police. 

A total of 46 out of 67 deceased were identified so far and 21 badly charred bodies could not be identified yet. 

67 people were killed in Chawkbazar inferno till reporting.

The fire broke out at a chemical warehouse in Chawkbazar area of Old Dhaka around 10:45 pm on Wednesday (February 20).

A probe body was formed. Measures will be taken based on their report.

BDST: 1828 HRS, FEB 22, 2019
RS