
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) mourns the tragic loss of four more soldiers amid an exchange of mortar fire between Congolese Defence Force (FARDC) ,and the M23 rebel militia on Monday, 27 January 2025. The SANDF base located near the airport, was caught in the crossfire resulting in the fatalities.
This follows the tragic loss of nine soldiers reported on Saturday , 25 January 2025. In a statement released by the Department of Defence, the M23 rebels had launched mortar bombs in the direction of GOMA Airport in eastern Congo, which led to the passing of three soldiers. While one member who was injured in the previous clashes with the M23 rebels over the past three days, succumbed to injuries.
A total number of 13 soldiers have been lost in this war thus far. The rest of the injured soldiers continue to receive medical attention in a hospital in Goma.
The Department of Defence has assured the public that the SANDF remains steadfast in its mission to support peace and security in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, despite the challenges posed by ongoing conflict in the region.