SANDF mission claims two lives

An indirect fire incident within the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) contingent deployed as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) resulted in casualties and injuries among SANDF soldiers stationed there.

The incident occurred on 14 February, at approximately 13:30 local time. It claimed the lives of two SANDF personnel and left three others injured.

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After the attack, medical personnel immediately attended to the injured soldiers and transported them to the nearest hospital facility in Goma for further treatment.

RSA CONTINGENT BOOSTS SADC MISSION IN DRC

The RSA contingent forms an integral part of the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC). It aims to bolster the efforts of the Congolese government to restore peace, security, and stability to the region.

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“Details of this incident are still sketchy at the moment, further investigation will be conducted to determine the basis of the incident,” said the SANDF in a statement.

SANDF OFFICIALS EXTEND CONDOLENCES FOR TRAGIC EVENT IN DRC

In response to the tragic event, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise, Deputy Minister Thabang Makwetla, acting Secretary for Defence Dr Thobekile Gamede, and chief of the SANDF, General Rudzani Maphwanya, extend their deepest condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers.

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They also express solidarity with the injured personnel, wishing them a swift and full recovery.