News24 | Search intensifies for missing SANDF member as drones join operation

Search and rescue teams have deployed a drone over the Komati River in Komatipoort, Mpumalanga, on Sunday as the search continues for a missing SANDF member who was swept away by floodwaters on Christmas Day.

Drones have been deployed as part of the search for a missing South African National Defence Force (SANDF) member, as a multi-agency search operation continues along the Komati River in Komatipoort, Mpumalanga, on Sunday.

News24 previously reported that two SANDF soldiers were swept away by a strong river current on Christmas Day after attempting to cross a flooded bridge while conducting border patrols near the Macadamia military base in Mpumalanga.

On Sunday, provincial police spokesperson Brigadier Donald Mdhluli said the search operation is being conducted collaboratively, with search-and-rescue teams working closely together.

He added that on Friday, 26 December, South African Police Service divers recovered the body of one SANDF member from the river, with assistance from helicopters deployed by SANParks and the SANDF.

READ | 2 soldiers swept away in flooded Mpumalanga river, 1 body recovered

A police helicopter joined the operation the following day.

“On Saturday, the SANDF bakkie involved in the incident was retrieved from the river. Two rifles, a mobile phone and other items were found inside the vehicle. However, the missing SANDF member has not yet been located,” Mdhluli said.

An Emergency Medical Services (EMS) helicopter was deployed to the scene on Sunday, while technological apparatus, including drones, are also being used to assist in the search.

Authorities have acknowledged the crucial role played by the local community in the operation. “A member of the public assisted by using a crane to pull the SANDF bakkie out of the river,” said Mdhluli.

Investigations into the incident are continuing, he added.