Pretoria - The bodies of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) members, who were killed in the Central African Republic (CAR) during clashes with the rebels over the weekend, have been brought home.
The SANDF member, who was reported missing, has also been found. According to SANDF spokesperson, Brigadier General Xolani Mabanga, the soldier is doing well and is still in CAR.
Mabanga said discussions will be held with the families of the deceased and they will decide how they want to bury their loved ones.
“We will have talks with the families and hear what they say.”
The SANDF is expected to conduct a memorial service for the fallen soldiers in Pretoria later today.
The SANDF has also released the names of the fallen soldiers.
They are: Corporal Mokgadi Darius Seakamela; Corporal Ntebaleng Andrew Mogorosi; Lance Corporal Daniel Sello Molara; Lance Corporal Lukas Mohapi Tsheke; Rifleman Lesego Maxwell Hertzog; Rifleman Zamani Jim Mxhosana; Rifleman Xolani Dlamini and Rifleman Vusumzi Joseph Ngaleka.
They also include Rifleman Karabo Edwin Matsheka; Rifleman Khomotso Paul Msenga; Rifleman Maleisane Samuel Thulo; Rifleman Motsamai William Bojane and Rifleman Thabiso Anthon Phirimana.
All deceased members are from the 1 Parachute Battalion unit in Bloemfontein.
The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Chief of the South African National Defence Force, Chief of Joint Operations and Chief of the SA Army have extend their sincerest condolences to the families and friends of the deceased. – SAnews.gov.za
