DNA tests on the skeletal remains of a child discovered in Hre begins

PATHOLOGISTS have started carrying out DNA tests on the skeletal remains of a child that were discovered at the Harare Exhibition Park on Sunday.

Police deputy spokesperson for Harare Province Assistant Inspector Tarisai Dube yesterday said there was no specific date when the results would be out.

"I can confirm that the pathologists started DNA tests on the remains yesterday and the results are yet to be announced," she said. Asst Insp Dube said the process was tedious and it could take a "couple" of days before results were released. Clothes that were recovered with the skeletal remains were positively identified as belonging to missing child, Given Flint Matapure. The three-year-old boy went missing during the Harare Agricultural Show in August.

Family spokesman Mr Mike Matapure said they were anxiously waiting for the DNA test results to ascertain the identity of the remains.

"We're also still eagerly waiting for the results and their announcement should bring relief to us," said Mr Matapure. Although Given's clothes were positively identified, police insist they cannot conclusively link the missing child to the remains.