By: Natasha Archary

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed that 3 Navy divers have died in Kommetjie, Cape Town on Wednesday, 20 September.
This after a huge wave battered the submarine they were on board at the time.
According to reports, the incident took place during a navy training exercise, and amid the Spring Tides which are causing massive waves along the country’s coastlines.
Initial reports suggest that the divers were swept into sea, and a search and rescue operation was launched by the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) immediately.
Two bodies were recovered, and later on Wednesday afternoon, the body of the third navy diver, a female, was extracted from the the SAS Manthatisi navy submarine.
In total 7 navy personnel were retrieved, with one person, a male being airlifted to hospital in a critical condition.
“It is with deep sadness that SANDF announces the tragic loss of 3 SA Navy submariners off Kommetjie on 20 September on board the SAS Manthatisi.
The families of the deceased members have been notified and military Chaplains and Social Workers are offering support to the family.
The names of the submariners who died are: Lieutenant Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector (Executive Officer), Master Warrant Officer William Masela Mathipa, and Warrant Officer Class One Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela.
The bereaved families have requested privacy during this difficult time, and we ask the media and public to respect their wishes.”
The SA National Defence Force Media Statement Follow Up || 21 September 2023 || SA Navy Submarine SAS MANTHATISI incident off Kommetjie 20 September 2023.
— SA National Defence Force (@SANDF_ZA) September 21, 2023
Media Statement by SA National Defence Force || SA Navy. #SANDF #DCCMediaLiaison #SANavy #RIPSASoldiers pic.twitter.com/WgEjPp6YJx
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