Soldier dies in fire
Four men and two women died after a 10m wall of flames swept through a military camp.
Betania’s Sthembiso Ndwalane, a soldier in the SANDF, was laid to rest last Sunday after he was killed in a fire along with five of his colleagues recently.
Ndwalane died after a 10 metre wall of flames swept through the Lohatla Military Camp in the Northern Cape.
It is believed that strong winds spread the fire, burning the whole camp including military vehicles, shelter and personal belongings of the soldiers.
In a statement released by the SANDF it said that the departed warriors will be remembered for their fearless sacrifice and defiant spirit throughout their military careers.
Minister of Defence, Thandi Modise said the water capacity at the base needs to be doubled as the fire could not be extinguished due to a lack of water.
“We are going through a board of enquiry, we will get a report and if anyone is found to be responsible or negligent then we will take measures.”
Inkosi Sazi Ndwalane said his uncle (Sthembiso) was a very humble and respectful man.
“He was very down to earth, we as his family and the SANDF have lost a true hero.”
Ndwalane is survived by his wife and three children.
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