SANDF Identifies Soldier Killed in DRC Attack

Ngubane, 39, was an operational medical practitioner with the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS).

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has identified Sergeant Mbulelo David Ngubane as the soldier who died in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on 30 May 2024. Ngubane, 39, was an operational medical practitioner with the South African Military Health Service (SAMHS).

Sergeant Ngubane was killed while tending to injured comrades in a clearly marked medical ambulance, which was attacked during a confrontation between M23 rebels and Southern African Development Community (SADC) forces. The SANDF emphasized that this incident violated the Geneva Convention on the Law of Armed Conflict, which protects medical personnel and vehicles during warfare.

The SANDF's deployment in the DRC is part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), aimed at supporting the country's efforts to restore peace, security, and stability. Earlier this year, Captain Simon Mkhulu Bobe and Lance Corporal Irven Thabang Semono were killed, and three others injured, in a mortar attack on a South African military base in the DRC.

The SANDF announced that details of Ngubane's memorial service and funeral will be shared soon. Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise, Deputy Minister Thabang Makwetla, Acting Secretary for Defence Dr. Thobekile Gamede, and SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya have extended their heartfelt condolences to Ngubane's family, friends, and colleagues.