As families continue to grapple with the uncertainty surrounding the fate of their loved ones who were on board MV Barima, relatives of several missing passengers told Kiskadee Watch that they have been contacted by authorities and asked to provide DNA samples.
According to the families, the samples will be used to assist forensic experts in identifying bodies that have been recovered but remain unidentified.
The relatives said the request has been particularly difficult for families who are still hoping their loved ones may be found alive but acknowledged that the DNA collection forms part of the identification process as recovery efforts continue.
The families also disclosed that during a recent meeting with President Irfaan Ali, they were informed that relatives of persons whose bodies have not yet been recovered would receive $350,000 to assist with holding memorial services.
According to the families, the President explained that the assistance is intended to provide support to relatives who have been unable to bury their loved ones because their bodies have not yet been found.
The announcement comes as many families continue to wait for answers more than a week after the tragedy. While several victims have been identified and laid to rest, others remain missing, leaving relatives in anguish as search operations continue.
Authorities have not yet issued a further update on the recovery efforts or the number of persons who remain unaccounted for.
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