The family of a missing South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldier has made an emotional visit to the scene where a military patrol vehicle was swept away by floodwaters near Komatipoort, Mpumalanga. The visit, marked by grief and uncertainty, followed a formal briefing by SANDF officials who outlined the circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
According to the SANDF, the family first met with senior officials who presented a detailed incident report explaining how the patrol vehicle was overcome by strong currents during severe weather conditions. After the briefing, the family was escorted to the exact location where the tragedy unfolded. SANDF members who accompanied them described the visit as deeply distressing, with emotions running high as the family tried to come to terms with the loss and ongoing uncertainty.
The incident occurred on Christmas Day 2025, when a SANDF Military Police patrol vehicle was attempting to cross a low-lying bridge during heavy rainfall. The bridge, located in the Macadamia area near Komatipoort, had become extremely dangerous due to swollen river levels. The powerful current swept the vehicle into the Komati, also known as the Lower Nkomazi River, while the soldiers were carrying out their duties under Operation Corona.
The SANDF has since confirmed that one soldier lost their life in the incident, while another remains missing. The body of the deceased soldier was later recovered, bringing some closure to one family, while another continues to wait for answers. In recent days, human remains believed to belong to the missing soldier have been recovered, but authorities have stressed that official identification is still pending. Forensic processes are currently underway to confirm the identity of the remains before any formal announcement can be made.
Search and rescue efforts remain ongoing and are being led by the South African Police Service (SAPS) Diving Rescue Team. These efforts are supported by aerial surveillance from an SANDF Oryx helicopter, which has been assisting teams in navigating the challenging terrain and river conditions. Despite the difficult circumstances, authorities have reiterated their commitment to continuing the search until all possibilities have been exhausted.
Senior defence officials, including Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga and Chief of the SANDF General Rudzani Maphwanya, have extended their condolences to the family of the deceased soldier. They have also expressed solidarity with the family of the missing member, acknowledging the emotional toll such an ordeal places on loved ones.
In a statement, the SANDF appealed to members of the public and the media to respect the privacy of the affected families and allow rescue and forensic operations to proceed without disruption. The defence force confirmed that both professional and emotional support services are being provided to the families during this extremely difficult period.
The tragic loss has once again highlighted the dangers faced by soldiers while performing their duties, particularly during extreme weather conditions. As investigations and identification processes continue, the nation waits alongside the grieving family for clarity and closure.
About the Author
