South African Soldier Killed, 13 Others Wounded in Clashes with M23 Rebels Near Sake

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has confirmed the death of one of its peacekeeping soldiers following violent clashes with M23 rebels near the city of Sake in North Kivu province, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The city is located 27 kilometers west of Goma.

The SANDF reported that 13 other soldiers were wounded in the intense confrontation with the M23 rebels. The clashes were triggered by an ambush initially launched by the Congolese army (FARDC), to which the M23 rebels retaliated fiercely.

“The members of the SANDF came into contact with the M23 in Sake, during the ensuing battle between the M23 and our forces. Thirteen members were wounded, and one was fatally wounded. All injured members have been evacuated to the hospital in Goma and are recovering,” stated the SANDF.

During the attack, two armored vehicles of the South African soldiers were destroyed by the rebels. This incident marks a significant loss for the South African army, which is part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) force deployed to combat the M23 rebellion. 

To date, South Africa has lost a total of four soldiers in the ongoing clashes with the M23 rebels.

The fighting continued on Friday for the second consecutive day on the hills overlooking the city of Sake. Local sources reported that both the FARDC and the Wazalendo militia are requesting additional reinforcements as they struggle to contain the M23 assault.

The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has intensified, drawing in regional forces and resulting in significant casualties. 

The situation remains volatile as the FARDC, supported by regional allies, continues its efforts to push back the M23 rebels and restore stability to the area.

Source: DRC News Today