WATCH: Search operation for missing SANDF member concludes in Komatipoort
The Mpumalanga Search and Rescue Team worked tirelessly to locate a missing soldier, persevering through extreme weather conditions and dangerous terrain.
The acting Mpumalanga police commissioner, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, has officially announced the conclusion of the extensive search-and-rescue operation in Komatipoort on December 31.
The decision to halt the operation follows the discovery of human remains, specifically a head, believed to belong to the second South African National Defence Force (SANDF) member involved in a tragic Christmas Day incident. Identification is pending the results of DNA testing.
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The search began after two SANDF soldiers, aged 33 and 39, were swept away by powerful currents while conducting border safeguarding duties under Operation Corona. They were attempting to cross a low-lying bridge over the flooded Nkomazi River near the Lebombo Border Post.
@lowvelder Mpumalanga police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli addressing the media during the search. #komatipoort #saps #mpumalanga
The body of the first soldier was recovered shortly after the incident, but the search for the second member continued for nearly a week under perilous conditions.
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Mkhwanazi expressed deep gratitude to the team, which included the specialised SAPS Diving Unit.
@lowvelder Captain Johannes Potgieter, Commander of the SAPS Diving Unit in Mpumalanga, speaks to the media. #komatipoort #mpumalanga
He highlighted the extraordinarily challenging conditions the team faced throughout the week, including extreme weather, continuous heavy rainfall, and severe storms.
Environmental hazards included rapidly swelling river levels and strong currents, while wildlife threats involved the constant presence of crocodiles and hippos in the search area.
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“The team worked tirelessly under conditions that posed significant risks to their own safety. Their commitment has enabled significant progress in our mission to provide closure to the families and colleagues of the two SANDF members,” he said.
The discovery of the remains occurred on Monday, December 29, after a local fisherman alerted authorities to a body floating near the border between South Africa and Mozambique.
“While the operation has come to an end, we remain vigilant. Should anyone spot anything suspicious in the river or its banks related to this incident, we urge them to report it immediately. The Search and Rescue Team, alongside the SAPS Diving Unit, will remain on standby to act promptly as new information arises. We recognise that these events have taken a toll on the families, friends, and colleagues of the deceased, and as members of the Provincial Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure (PROVJOINTS), we extend our deepest sympathies during this difficult time,” said Mkhwanazi.
The SAPS has registered an inquest case to officially determine the identity and cause of death through forensic analysis.
