SANDF soldier trampled to death by elephants during Limpopo patrol
A soldier from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) died at the weekend after being trampled by a herd of elephants while conducting routine patrols in Limpopo.
Private Xavier Raynard was deployed under Operation CORONA in the Madimbo area.
Operation CORONA is a national border safeguarding initiative aimed at protecting South Africa's territorial integrity and combating transnational crimes along the country's borders.
Members deployed in these operations face harsh terrain, isolation, and exposure to unpredictable natural conditions in the line of duty.
SANDF spokesperson, Prince Tshabalala, confirmed the soldier's death to IOL.
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15 hours ago
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SANDF Soldier Killed by Elephants While on Limpopo Border Patrol
indications show that Private Raynard was fatally injured by elephants while performing his duties. 'His service weapon was recovered at the scene Image: Thobile Mathonsi/Independent Media A soldier from the South African National Defence Force tragically died after being trampled by a herd of elephants during a routine patrol near the Zimbabwe border in Limpopo. Private X. Raynard, a member of the 10 Anti-Air Regiment, was found dead late on Sunday, July 27, 2025, close to the Madimbo Operational Base. Private Raynard was serving under Operation Corona, a national initiative focused on securing South Africa's borders and fighting cross-border crimes such as smuggling and human trafficking. The operation involves soldiers patrolling remote and challenging areas, often dealing with harsh weather conditions, rough terrain, and the threat of wild animals. Rear Admiral Prince Tshabalala, spokesperson for the SANDF, confirmed the circumstances surrounding the incident. He said early indications show that Private Raynard was fatally injured by elephants while performing his duties. 'His service weapon was recovered at the scene,' Tshabalala noted. The incident is currently under thorough investigation by SANDF officials working alongside environmental and wildlife experts to determine exactly what happened. A formal board of inquiry has been set up to look into the matter. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The Madimbo area, where the tragedy occurred, is a known wildlife habitat located near the border with Zimbabwe. It is a strategic location for border patrols due to its history of illegal crossings and other criminal activity. However, the presence of wild animals, including elephants, adds a dangerous and unpredictable element to the work of soldiers stationed there. Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Private Raynard. 'Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues of Private Raynard,' she said. 'He gave his life in service to the country, and we honour his sacrifice.' General Rudzani Maphwanywa, Chief of the SANDF, also paid tribute to the soldier's commitment and bravery. 'Private Raynard served with dedication and courage. We mourn his passing and stand with his loved ones during this difficult time,' said Maphwanywa. The soldier's next of kin, who live in Kimberley in the Northern Cape, have been formally informed of his death. The SANDF is providing support and counselling to the family and the members of the unit affected by this tragedy. Operation Corona is one of South Africa's key efforts to protect its borders. It aims to prevent illegal entry, smuggling, and other criminal activities that threaten national security. Soldiers deployed in this mission face not only human threats but also the natural dangers posed by wildlife and the environment. 'The risks taken by members of the SANDF in securing our borders are significant,' said Tshabalala. 'Private Raynard's death is a reminder of the sacrifices made daily by our men and women in uniform. We salute his courage and commitment to protecting the nation.' As investigations continue, the SANDF is committed to learning from this incident to improve safety for soldiers working in similar high-risk environments. The loss of Private Raynard is a solemn moment for the Defence Force and the country, highlighting the harsh realities faced by those who guard South Africa's borders.
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The South African
19 hours ago
- The South African
SANDF soldier trampled to death by herd of elephants in Limpopo
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) is mourning the loss of Private Xavier Raynard, a soldier deployed under Operation CORONA, who was tragically found dead near the Yellow Gate of the Madimbo Operational Base in Limpopo last Sunday. Initial assessments suggest that the 10 Anti-Air Regiment soldier may have been fatally trampled by a herd of elephants while conducting routine border patrol duties. His service weapon was recovered at the scene. The SANDF has launched a formal Board of Inquiry, working in conjunction with environmental and wildlife authorities, to establish the exact circumstances surrounding the fatal incident. Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga, SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya, and Acting Secretary of Defence Dr Thobeka Gamede extended heartfelt condolences to Raynard's family, friends, and colleagues. 'His dedication and service to the Republic of South Africa will be remembered with honour,' the SANDF said in an official statement. Raynard's next of kin in Kimberley have been formally notified, and psychosocial support is being provided to his family and fellow unit members. Operation CORONA is South Africa's national border safeguarding initiative, designed to protect territorial integrity and combat transnational crimes, such as smuggling and illegal crossings. Soldiers deployed in this operation often operate in remote and harsh environments, facing wildlife threats, extreme weather, and extended isolation while maintaining national security. This tragedy highlights the unique and dangerous challenges faced by SANDF troops on South Africa's porous borders, particularly in regions adjacent to national parks and game reserves where wildlife roams freely. Private Raynard is remembered as a committed and courageous soldier, and the SANDF has pledged full transparency in uncovering what led to his untimely death. Post your condolences below, by … Leaving a comment below, or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
