UN investigating death of SA soldier in the DRC

UN investigating death of SA soldier in the DRC

The office of the United Nations Secretary General has conveyed condolences to the family and the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) following the death of a soldier in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on Monday. 

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SANDF Media

The explosion claimed the life of one South African soldier when a hand grenade exploded near sleeping quarters at their base in Beni.


The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) member was part of the UN mission in the DRC.


Since February this year, eight soldiers have lost their lives in the line of duty in the DRC.


Additionally, four soldiers died in a North West mine shaft over the weekend.


READ: SANDF probing deaths of four soldiers in North West mine shaft


UN Secretary General spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric says the peacekeeping mission in the DRC area is also investigating the explosion that happened.


"We have gotten a report from our colleagues at the inner peace keeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo that tells us that a South African peacekeeper deployed in north Kyiv died after a hand grenade exploded next to his tent.


"The mission is currently investigating the cause of that explosion. We convoyed our deep heartfelt condolences to the family of the peacekeeper and the people in government in South Africa."


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