SANDF releases the names of six soldiers who died in the fire
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has released the names of the six soldiers who died in a fire at the Lohatla military base.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has released the names of the six soldiers who died in a fire at the Lohatla military base in the Northern Cape on Friday after informing their relatives.
They are staff sergeants Sipho Berrington Cele and Abraham Desember Morajane, Lance Corporal Prince Michael Mthethwa, Corporal Noxolo Faith Ngubane, Corporal Sithembiso Wiseman Ndwalane, and Corporal Londiwe Purity Zulu.
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What made Friday’s fire unpredictable?
Three additional soldiers who suffered second-degree burns are seeking medical attention.
According to SANDF spokesperson Maj-General René Mercuur, the fire and rescue squad had been prepared due to recent fires in the area. A rapid change in wind direction, gusting at 70 km/h, made Friday’s fire unpredictable.
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How did the SANDF soldiers die?
Six South African National Defense Force soldiers died on Friday at their combat training facility in Lohatla, Northern Cape, after becoming trapped in a veld fire.
According to the South African National Defence Union (Sandu), numerous more South African Defense Force soldiers were hurt while the other six died.
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Tents and other equipment were also damaged, in addition to numerous military vehicles.
Twelve soldiers have lost their lives in the past three weeks, making this the most recent tragedy to afflict the SANDF.
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