SANDF refutes claims of troops returning from DRC surrendering weapons in Rwanda

JOHANNESBURG - The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has rubbished claims that returning troops from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) would have to surrender their weapons while transiting through Rwanda. 

On Sunday, the City Press published an article breaking down the difficult withdrawal procedure of the peacekeepers who have been stationed in Goma since December 2023.

The national defence force has denied the reports, citing that the current withdrawal process was in line with a South African Development Community (SADC) agreement of protocol established with partner countries. 

Since a ceasefire was brokered earlier this year, the SADC gave a directive for the withdrawal of troops. 

The first group of peacekeepers exited the volatile eastern DRC in April, and with the second having begun its exit earlier in May, it is set to wrap up soon. 

During this time, there have been multiple reports of buses meant to transport soldiers from Goma back to South Africa failing to arrive.

City Press' latest report claimed that soldiers on the ground were stranded and not allowed to carry personal weapons or firearms into Rwanda, rendering them vulnerable

SANDF spokesperson, Prince Tshabalala, said that the article created panic, which may compromise the safety of the troops being withdrawn. 

"The article is not factual but sensationalist and it appears to be aimed at creating panic and discrediting all involved. We view this irresponsible reporting in a serious light, with a potential to compromise the safety of our troops and carefully coordinated withdrawal process. This article must be condemned with the contempt it deserves."

Tshabalala has assured that they remain committed to returning all troops back home safely.