Already 21 unknown bodies identified by DNA database for missing persons

The DNA database for missing persons is a success. The National Institute of Criminology and Criminalistics (NICC) reported this on Wednesday. Since the database was founded four years ago, 273 new profiles have been added and in 21 cases the database has contributed to the identification of unknown bodies or body parts.

The DNA database was established on July 1, 2018 with the aim of identifying unknown bodies or finding traces of missing persons. There are three types of DNA profiles, explains Bieke Vanhooydonck of the NICC. "First, there are the unidentified bodies. In addition, traces of missing persons, such as teeth, are also added to the database. Finally, the DNA of relatives of missing persons is added."

So far, the database has been able to contribute to the identification of an unknown body in 21 cases. It concerns five profiles of relatives and thirteen trace profiles of a missing person.

The database also works together with the Missing Persons Cell. "The database is relatively small, but very effective, as it turns out," says Vanhooydonck. For example, the database would also have led to a breakthrough in files with few indications.

Operation Graveyard

Meanwhile, the Missing Persons Cell has also started "Operation Graveyard", where bodies buried under "X" are systematically exhumed to take a DNA sample, in the hopes of being able to identify them from the DNA. database. It would be about 250 bodies.