Rescue teams in Mpumalanga have recovered the body of one South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldier after their vehicle was swept away by flooding in the Nkomazi River. The incident occurred during a routine border patrol operation near Komatipoort. Search efforts for the second missing soldier continue amid challenging conditions.
On December 26, 2025, two SANDF members were attempting to cross the Nkomazi River from Komatipoort to the Lebombo Border Post on the lower bridge as part of Operation Corona, a border security initiative. Their vehicle was swept away by sudden flooding, prompting an immediate rescue operation.
Initial reports indicated that a search was underway, with an SANDF helicopter deployed to scour the area. By later in the day, Mpumalanga Police confirmed the recovery of one soldier's body. Police spokesperson Donald Mdluli stated that efforts to locate the second member were ongoing.
The South African National Defence Force issued a media statement on the incident, noting it occurred at Macadamia during Operation Corona. This tragedy highlights the risks faced by personnel in flood-prone border regions, especially during the rainy season.
No further details on the identities of the soldiers or the exact cause of the flooding were provided in official statements. The event underscores ongoing challenges in border patrols, though unrelated reports mention broader SANDF funding issues for such operations.
