Luanda: CIVICOP spokesperson Manuel Halaiwa reiterated a call on Saturday, in Bengo province, for families to cooperate in identifying relatives who were victims of the country's conflicts, particularly women. Speaking to the press, the CIVICOP member explained that 34 new profiles have been obtained so far: 22 female and 12 male genetic profiles.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Manuel Halaiwa added that, while a list of women who disappeared during this period was recently announced, more needs to be done. As part of this ongoing effort, he reported the identification of another female victim through DNA testing-facilitated by biological samples provided by family members-to compare against the newly obtained genetic profiles.
"We continue to appeal for more family members to donate biological samples so that CIVICOP can carry on its work for National Reconciliation, enabling the identification of these victims and allowing families to hold dignified funerals," he emphasized.
The Commission for the Implementation of the Reconciliation Plan in Memory of Victims of Political Conflicts (CIVICOP) is an Angolan state body established in 2019. Its primary focus is to locate, exhume, and identify the remains of victims of political conflicts that occurred between November 11, 1975, and April 4, 2002, while also facilitating the issuance of death certificates and organizing commemorative tributes.
