Heavy rain and flooding in Macadamia near Komatipoort over the past few days swept two South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers from their vehicle on December 25 while they were performing Operation Corona duties. One soldier’s body has since been recovered, while the other remains missing.

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Siphiwe Dlamini, head of communications for the SANDF, explained how the incident occurred.

“While conducting routine patrol duties, a military vehicle carrying members of the SANDF Military Police attempted to cross a river that was heavily flooded due to recent weather conditions,” he said.

An extensive search-and-rescue operation is currently under way.

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“The South African Diving Rescue Team, supported by a SANDF Oryx helicopter, continues to search for the missing soldier,” Dlamini confirmed.

Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga has conveyed her heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased. She also expressed her deep concern and solidarity with the family of the missing soldier during this difficult time.