Evacuation Of Injured, Pregnant SANDF Soldiers From DRC To Begin This Week

The evacuation of injured South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldiers from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is set to begin this week, following delays over the preferred evacuation route.

Uncertainty Over Number of SANDF Soldiers to Return

It remains unclear how many troops will be brought back to South Africa. The evacuation follows last month’s deadly clashes between the M23 rebels and the Congolese military, which resulted in the deaths of 14 SANDF members.

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According to reports, nearly 190 soldiers have been listed as wounded or sick, including at least five who are seriously injured and two who are pregnant.

Delays Over Evacuation Route

The evacuation process has faced setbacks, as M23 rebels insist that the only available route for withdrawal is through Rwanda’s border. However, South Africa has opposed using this route, fearing potential humiliation by Rwandan authorities.

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The United Nations will oversee the evacuation, but details on the final number of troops to be transported from Goma remain unconfirmed.

This remains a developing story, with further updates expected as the evacuation process unfolds.

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