Ahmedabad plane crash: DNA matching completed in 214 cases, 204 bodies handed over to families

Over a week after the devastating aircraft crash near Ahmedabad, the police commissioner of the city, G S Malik, addressed the media on Thursday to share key developments in the ongoing investigation and rescue operations.

The fatal crash occurred on June 12 at 1.40 pm, moments after the aircraft—carrying 242 passengers—lost contact and went down shortly after takeoff. The Air Traffic Control was alerted by 1.42 pm, and within minutes, a full-scale rescue operation was launched.

Emergency services including ambulances and the fire brigade were immediately dispatched to the crash site. Personnel from paramilitary forces, NDRF, CISF, the Indian Army and Air Force swiftly joined the efforts. All 19 fire stations of Ahmedabad were engaged in the rescue in close coordination with the city police.

Constables from Meghaninagar police station reportedly assisted ambulance crews in transporting the injured. Multiple investigation teams were formed to collect evidence, record witness statements, and initiate DNA and post-mortem procedures.

According to Police Commissioner Malik, sample collection from the crash site began promptly, with crucial forensic material being delivered to laboratories by midnight on the same day. DNA samples of family members were also gathered and sent for analysis.

The first DNA reports were received on June 14. The Gujarat Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL), using advanced software and modern technology, facilitated the rapid matching of samples. So far, DNA matching has been successfully completed in 214 cases, with 204 identified bodies handed over to the respective families.

In two instances, the bodies were returned to families on the day of the crash itself, as they were identifiable and not severely charred. Police handed over the death certificates, post-mortem reports, and personal belongings of the deceased to the bereaved families.

Commissioner Malik extended his gratitude to the teams involved in rescue and recovery including doctors, firefighters, police officers, and ambulance staff commending them for their swift and dedicated response.

Regarding the technical investigation, Malik confirmed that all aircraft parts have been preserved and are being examined collectively. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) is leading the inquiry. The black box has been recovered and its data is currently under analysis.

While the cause of the crash is yet to be officially determined, authorities are moving ahead with methodical precision to establish facts and bring closure to the families of the victims.

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