Parliament, Sunday, 19 July 2026 – The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans, Mr Dakota Legoete, extends his heartfelt condolences to the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) following the passing of two of its members during an anti-illegal mining operation in Johannesburg last Friday.
The SANDF members tragically lost their lives during the pursuit of suspected illegal miners after they were seen exiting an abandoned underground mine. A pursuit ensued, resulting in the members falling into an open mine shaft.
“The death of the SANDF members is truly regrettable. We must remember them and never forget that they died as heroes in defence of our country. Their contribution to Operation Prosper is an honour no one can take away from them,” said Mr Legoete.
“On behalf of the committee I wish to extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, as well as to the entire Department of Defence during this time of profound loss, said Mr Legoete.
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE AND MILITARY VETERANS, MR DAKOTA LEGOETE.
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