The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) said on Tuesday that a group of critically injured soldiers has been repatriated from Goma in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) to receive medical care in South Africa.

Soldiers were deployed as part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the DRC.

So far, 14 soldiers have lost their lives in the conflict, this amid concerns regarding the serviceability of the SANDF’s Prime Mission Equipment and mission deployment readiness.

There have been calls for President Cyril Ramaphosa to recall soldiers from the mission.

Meanwhile, the SANDF said more wounded soldiers will arrive in South Africa this week.

“The SANDF in coordination with other relevant role players has worked tirelessly to ensure the safe return of our wounded members. We urge the public to respect and afford privacy to the injured members and their families during the healing process. The SANDF remains committed to the welfare of our soldiers. Further updates will be provided as necessary,” it said.