Missing teen Amiena Swano identified through DNA testing in Hout Bay tragedy
Amiena Swano, aged 17 was murdered.
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DNA testing has confirmed the identity of the body found in a building inside a cupboard in Hout Bay last month to be that of missing 17-year-old Amiena Swano.
During a brief but emotional interview with the Cape Argus on Tuesday night, Salama Swano confirmed that after three weeks, DNA testing confirmed that the body found belonged to her daughter who was a learner at Hout Bay High School.
Swano had the difficult task of carrying out the physical identification at the mortuary on Wednesday.
The janaza (funeral) was set to take place following the release of the body to the undertaker.
“The DNA results have come back, it is my daughter Amiena’s body which was found," said Swano.
Three people including a 59-year-old woman have been arrested for the murder
They are currently making appearances at the Wynberg Magistrate's Court.
During a previous interview with the Cape Argus, Swano warned other parents and children of the abuse of the prescription drug, Xanax.
She said her child began experimenting with the drug a few months ago and had begun mixing it as a cocktail with dagga and Coke.
As a result, she would be in a "Zombie-like" state and believed she could not defend herself against her attacker.
Amiena, a Grade 11 learner, vanished on Valentine's day after attending a concert with friends.
The mother said when police had informed her of the clothing items found on the body, it was a match of what Amiena's was last seen wearing.
Police have since said it is for the National Prosecuting Authority’s response regarding DNA.
Roscoe Jacobs, Deputy Chairperson, Hout Bay CPF extended their condolences to the family and also confirmed the DNA identification of the remains.
“The Hout Bay Community Policing Forum (CPF) can confirm that the body discovered earlier this week at the Sea View Flats in Hangberg, Hout Bay, has been formally identified as that of 17-year-old Amiena Swano,” said Jacobs.
“The identification follows the completion of DNA processes conducted by the South African Police Service.
“This confirmation brings devastating news to Amiena’s family, friends, and the broader Hangberg community. We extend our deepest condolences to her loved ones during this profoundly painful time. The CPF appeals for privacy and respect for the family as they begin to process this tragic loss.
“Three accused have been arrested and charged with murder and remain in custody while the legal processes and investigations continue.
“We urge the community and broader Cape Town to honour Amiena’s memory with dignity, to refrain from speculation or the circulation of graphic or unverified information, and to allow the legal process to proceed without interference.
“Today’s confirmation is heartbreaking. Our focus now must be on supporting Amiena’s family, standing united as a community, and ensuring that justice takes its course. As the CPF, we remain committed to working closely with SAPS and all stakeholders to ensure accountability, calm, and healing in Hangberg.”