Overview
- Two SANDF Military Police members were swept away on 25 December when their patrol vehicle attempted to cross a low-lying bridge over the swollen Nkomazi/Komati River near Macadamia, Komatipoort, during Operation Corona.
- Police divers recovered one soldier’s body on Friday, while a second service member remains missing.
- The SAPS Diving Rescue Team, supported by an SANDF Oryx helicopter, is conducting continuing search operations along the river.
- Officials said operations were suspended overnight for safety reasons and were scheduled to resume at first light with South African Air Force support.
- Defence Minister Angie Motshekga and senior leaders expressed condolences and asked the media to provide space for rescue efforts and family notifications.