The Ehlanzeni Diving Unit confirmed this morning that search efforts are ongoing for a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldier who went missing in Macadamia near Komatipoort.

Pottie Potgieter of the diving unit told Lowvelder that a SAPS helicopter has also been deployed to assist in the search.

Christmas Day tragedy

Two SANDF soldiers were swept from their vehicle on Christmas Day while attempting to cross the heavily flooded Nkomazi River. One soldier’s body has been recovered, while the other remains missing.

Lowvelder previously reported that heavy rain and flooding in Macadamia near Komatipoort over the past few days swept the soldiers from their vehicle while they were performing Operation Corona duties.

How the incident happened

Siphiwe Dlamini, the head of communications for the SANDF, explained: “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.

Condolences

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.

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