South African peacekeepers critically injured in eastern Congo have been evacuated by the UN. The soldiers were receiving treatment in Goma, a city captured by M23 rebels. Concerns regarding troop preparedness and misconduct have emerged following their evacuation, amidst a backdrop of rising casualties in the ongoing conflict.
A group of critically injured South African peacekeepers, hurt in clashes in eastern Congo a month ago, have been evacuated by the United Nations, as reported by the South African armed forces. The soldiers received initial medical care in Goma, a city currently controlled by the M23 rebels, supported by Rwanda, who seized it in January during a resurgence of violence.
Siphiwe Dlamini, a spokesperson for the South African National Defense Force (SANDF), confirmed that the injured soldiers have returned to South Africa, though the exact number of evacuees was not disclosed. According to a representative from the South African National Defense Union, over 100 soldiers are being evacuated, including three requiring urgent medical assistance and two pregnant female soldiers, although Dlamini did not provide further comment on this claim.
The conflict in eastern Congo has been deadly, with reports indicating that approximately 7,000 individuals have lost their lives amid the M23’s offensive which has resulted in the rebels capturing major cities such as Goma and Bukavu. South Africa’s peacekeeping mission in the region has faced scrutiny regarding troop preparedness and equipment quality, prompting questions from political entities and military unions.
In addition to the South African soldiers, Malawian troops have also suffered fatalities in the region, heightening concerns about troop safety and effectiveness. The planned withdrawal of the UN peacekeeping force, known as MONUSCO, was halted, as ongoing conflicts continue to threaten stability in the area.
The situation casts doubt on the operational capabilities of South African forces within the regional peacekeeping framework, especially after previous incidents resulted in serious misconduct allegations against some soldiers. As violence escalates, the international community remains watchful of the situation which has drawn engagement from various defense forces from neighboring nations.
In summary, critically injured South African soldiers have been evacuated from eastern Congo as the region grapples with continued violence led by M23 rebels. The South African National Defense Force has faced scrutiny regarding the preparedness of its troops, highlighting concerns about the effectiveness and safety of peacekeeping efforts in the region amidst increasing casualties. The ongoing conflict raises alarms not only for participating nations like South Africa and Malawi but also for international observers, posing serious questions about the overall strategy for achieving lasting peace in eastern Congo.
Original Source: abcnews.go.com
