Return of fallen SA soldiers finally underway

By Johnathan Paoli

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed the return of the bodies of 14 soldiers who died in recent conflict in the city of Goma, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is currently underway.

SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini said that following delays that were encountered in the movement of the deceased to United Nations logistics base in Entebbe, Uganda, the UN conducted movement was in progress.

“It is expected that by (the afternoon), they will arrive in Entebbe and the bodies will be prepared for transportation by air to South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania,” Dlamini said.

A total of 18 bodies are reportedly being repatriated to South Africa, Malawi and Tanzania.

SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya originally told the Joint Committee on Defence and Military Veterans on Tuesday that the deceased, along with other wounded soldiers were expected to be returned by Wednesday.

However, in