DRC Conflict: Wounded members of SANDF returned to SA.

(The Post Script)

A second aeroplane carrying wounded members of South Africa National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers returned to South Africa. The aeroplane touched down on South African soil on Tuesday morning following a first aeroplane carrying critically wounded soldiers arriving Monday night. The evacuation of these soldiers were delayed due to an untrusted route and possible humiliation, and the United Nations (UN) helping with the evacuation process.

An undisclosed number of solders landed at Air Force Base Waterkloof in Pretoria and are being treated at 1 Military Hospital. It is not clear how many soldiers are coming back home but some are still expected to touch down on South African soil during the course of the week.

Amongst the wounded, three critically wounded solders needed high-level medical care. SA National Defence Union National Secretary, Pikkie Greef said “We know of at least three seriously injured members who need urgent medical intervention and possibly aftercare. It’s a matter of saving limbs and possibly lives.”

The soldiers were part of the peacekeeping in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. They were injured in a clash with the M23 rebels in Goma war. The war resulting in 14 South African solders losing their lives and other soldiers from Malawi and Tanzania. “The remainder are scheduled to arrive in South Africa during the week. The SANDF, in coordination with other relevant role players, has worked tirelessly to ensure the safe return of our wounded members,” said SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini.

Moreover, The SANDF officials also urged the public to pay respect and afford privacy to the wounded soldiers and their families during the healing process. Other members of the SANDF are still deployed in the Democratic Republic of Congo for the peacekeeping mission and promised to be assisted whichever possible to keep them safe.