According to the South African government, a member of the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) who was serving in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) as part of the United Nations Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO) has tragically passed away.
Hand Grenade Burst
A hand grenade burst next to the sleeping quarters of the soldier at their base in Beni, which is situated in the eastern portion of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, on Monday, July 8, 2024.
The soldier was killed as a result of his injuries.
What was the Cause of the explosion
It is not known what caused the explosion that occurred with the grenade.
At the request of the United Nations, a South African National Defense Force (SANDF) Board of Inquiry will be assembled to conduct a comprehensive inquiry to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the occurrence.
Repatriating Remains
After all of the appropriate procedures to repatriate his remains have been completed and his family has been told of his demise, the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) has assured the public that the identity of the deceased will be disclosed.
condolences
Ms. Angie Motshekga, Minister of Defense and Military Veterans, Mr. Bantu Hlomisa and Mr. Richard Mkhungo, Deputy Ministers of Defense and Military Veterans, Acting Secretary for Defense Dr. Thobekile Gamede, and General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of the South African National Defense Force, have all extended their deepest condolences to the bereaved family and the broader defense community. They have also expressed their deepest sympathies to the bereaved family.
During their deployment in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), the South African National Defense Force (SANDF) and the Multinational Organization for Security Cooperation (MONUSCO) continue to collaborate to guarantee the safety and security of their people. If additional information becomes accessible, additional updates will be published.
