The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed the deaths of two additional soldiers deployed as part of the United Nations Organisation Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO).
Tragic Incident in DRC
The two soldiers lost their lives on February 29th in an apparent murder-suicide. According to SANDF, one soldier allegedly shot and killed their colleague with a service weapon before turning the gun on themselves.
This comes just weeks after two other SANDF members were killed in a mortar attack in the DRC, which also left three others wounded.
Investigation Underway
The SANDF has dispatched a Board of Inquiry to work alongside MONUSCO command to investigate the circumstances surrounding the latest incident. The families of the fallen soldiers have been informed, and arrangements are being made to repatriate their remains to South Africa.
Condolences from Leadership
Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise expressed shock over the tragic loss and conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families.
Farewell to Fallen Soldiers
Meanwhile, mourners have gathered at Kimberley City Hall to bid farewell to Captain Simon Mkhulu Bobe, one of the SANDF soldiers killed in the February 14th mortar attack.
- Captain Bobe (35) served with 1 South African Infantry Battalion and lost his life when a mortar landed inside the base.
- His colleague, Lance Corporal Thabang Semono, will be laid to rest at Thaba Tshwane Cemetery in Gauteng.
🇿🇦 Honouring the Brave 🇿🇦
The loss of these soldiers is a devastating blow to their families and the SANDF, as South Africa continues its commitment to peacekeeping operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
📌 More updates to follow as investigations continue.
The #SANDF Media Statement || Friday, 01 March 2024 || The SA National Defence Force regrets to announce an incident that claimed lives of its two members deployed in the Democratic Republic of the Congo on 29 February 2024.#SANDF#JointOperationsDivision#RIPSASoldiers#DRC pic.twitter.com/pSU9CQRKho
— SA National Defence Force 🇿🇦 (@SANDF_ZA) March 2, 2024
