Cape Town – Four members of the South African National Defence Force’s 8 Infantry Battalion tragically lost their lives, and two others were critically injured in a freak accident involving a military vehicle.
The incident occurred while a Samil 50 truck was towing another Samil 50, Times Live reported.
A burst front tire on the rear vehicle being towed caused both vehicles to roll and crash.
“A front tyre on the rear vehicle being towed burst, causing both vehicles to roll and crash.
“Four members were ejected and the Samil fell on top of them. These members were confirmed dead at the scene. Two members were critically injured and were evacuated to Dr Harry Surtie Hospital in Upington. Nine members with minor injuries were also evacuated to Dr Harry Surtie Hospital,” the report quoted the army as saying.
NDABANEWS: BREAKING – JUST IN | Another tragedy has hit the SANDF after soldiers (believed to be 4) died in an accident in the Northern Cape around 1pm on Thursday. The dead soldiers are from the 8 Sai Battalion and they were travelling from Upington to Lohatla where there is an… pic.twitter.com/RWe1jhQE0k
— Thulani Ndaba (@tndaba) September 21, 2023
The accident took place during a journey from Upington to Lohatlha in the Northern Cape.
The military has notified the families of the deceased members and is providing support through army chaplains and social workers.
Various military officials, including the Defence and Military Veterans Minister and the Chief of the South African Army, have extended their condolences to the bereaved families, friends, and colleagues.
The affected families have requested privacy during this difficult time, and the media and the public are urged to respect their wishes.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
