Deadly DRC conflict: It's unclear when repatriation of 14 soldiers will happen - SANDF
South African troops have been in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since December 2023 on a peacekeeping mission.
SANDF army defence force soldiers
JOHANNESBURG - The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) says it is still unclear when the repatriation of the 14 soldiers who lost their lives in Goma will take place.
South African troops have been in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) since December 2023 on a peacekeeping mission.
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There were initially 13 soldiers who lost their lives in battle against the M23 rebel group. Another soldier was added to the list after they succumbed to injury in hospital on Saturday.
The escalating conflict in the DRC has made it difficult for the bodies of the 14 soldiers to be returned to their families.
“It’s difficult to say how long it will take because of the prevailing situation in Goma, where the bodies are,” said SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini.
On Saturday night, the SANDF officially released the names of the soldiers who lost their lives fighting against the M23 rebels' attempts to overtake Goma.
William Cola, Molahleli Molahleli, Matome Malesa, Ithumeleng Morero, Shwanhlane Seepe, Rinae Nemavhulani, Tseke Molapo, Meste Raswiawi, Sebatane Chokoe, Derrick Maluleke, Tshidiso Mabele, Calvin Moagi, Mokete Mobe, and Peter Strydom have all been hailed by the SANDF as courageous and extraordinary soldiers.