Four members of the 8 SA Infantry Battalion (8 SAI) stationed in Upington, passed away. Two were critically injured and nine sustained minor injuries during a vehicle accident at approximately 17:20 on Wednesday, 20 September.
The accident took place 90 km from Upington.
These members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) were on their way to the SA Army’s Combat Training Centre at Lohatlha to take part in Exercise Vukuhlome, said Brig. Gen. Andries Mahapa, director of SANDF Communication.
He said one Samil 50 truck was towing another Samil 50 that became unserviceable en route. Apparently, the Samil that was towed, experienced a front right tyre burst, causing both vehicles to roll.
Four members got ejected from the truck they were travelling in and a Samil fell on top of them. They were confirmed dead on the scene.
Two members are critically injured and were transported to the Dr Harry Surtie Hospital in Upington through casualty evacuation.
The nine members with minor injuries were also evacuated to the hospital.
Mahapa said the families of the deceased have been notified and military chaplains and social workers are offering support to them.
The minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise; deputy minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thabang Makwetl; acting secretary for Defence, Dr Thobile Gamede; Chief of the South African National Defence Force, Gen. Rudzani Maphwany; and Chief of the South African Army, Gen. Lawrence Mbatha extended their deepest condolences to the bereaved families, friends, and colleagues.
