Bulelwa Hoala

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) on Tuesday confirmed the successful repatriation of some of the injured South African soldiers from Goma in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
The total number of soldiers who have returned back home has not been confirmed by SANDF.
However, News24 reports that this comes after an estimated 190 wounded and sick soldiers were told on Friday night that a plan to bring them back home had failed.
At least five of the soldiers are said to be seriously injured and two are reportedly pregnant.
SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini confirmed in a statement that the injured soldiers are receiving medical attention.
“The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) confirms that the group of critically injured soldiers who needed urgent medical attention have been successfully repatriated from the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and will receive high level medical care. The remainder are scheduled to arrive in South Africa during the course of the week.
“The SANDF in coordination with other relevant role players has worked tirelessly to ensure the safe return of our wounded members. We urge the public to respect and afford privacy to the injured members and their families during the healing process. The SANDF remains committed to the welfare of our soldiers. Further updates will be provided as necessary,” said Dlamini.
Meanwhile, Soldiers Union SANDU has stressed the importance of privacy for the injured SANDF troops.
Watch the video below:
[WATCH]: Soldiers Union SANDU has stressed the importance of privacy for the injured SANDF troops.
— Kaya News (@KayaNews) February 25, 2025
It’s Secretary Pikkie Greef says this is to not only deal with their physical wounds, but the mental trauma as well.#KayaNews #SANDF NPM pic.twitter.com/CNNR5eSQ8L
This follows the death of 14 SANDF soldiers who were killed in battle against M23 rebels during the period of 23 to 27 January 2025 in Goma.
The remains of the deceased were handed over to their families at a ceremony which was held at the Air Force Base Swartkop on Thursday, 13 February 2025.
The SANDF is reportedly a part of the 16 forces involved in a peacekeeping mission in the DRC.
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