Three South African Soldiers Killed, 18 Injured In DR Congo — Sources

According to a political party and a military union on Saturday, three South African soldiers were killed and 18 were hurt in clashes with M23 forces in the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) party “exprims its condolences to the families of the three South African National Defence Forces (SANDF) members who tragically lost their lives,” the statement read.

“In addition, at least 18 SANDF soldiers were wounded in the ongoing battles with M23 rebels”.

The casualties occurred Thursday when M23 rebels attacked Sake in the eastern DRC, said the DA, which is part of South Africa’s governing coalition.

The Southern African Development Community (SADC), a regional grouping that includes both nations, sent South African soldiers to the DRC on a mission.

A SADC official in Botswana and a spokesman for the South African military both confirmed to AFP that they were unable to comment.

“The SANDF will respond with a statement”, spokesman Jaco Theunissen said.

A DA parliamentarian, Chris Hattingh, told AFP that the party had received confirmation from the SADC force and from other sources in the DRC.

“The SANDF’s lack of communication regarding the DRC situation is very worrying.” South Africans must rely on DRC sources to be informed of casualties”, he said.

The casualties also piqued the national defense union of South Africa.

“Soldiers deserve more than silence. Our leaders must immediately acknowledge and take action for their sacrifices and wounds. Such crucial information shouldn’t be delayed or withheld. We need answers, and we need them now”, national secretary Pikkie Greef said.

Source: Channels TV