Latest news with #OperationCORONA
The South African
2 days 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.
The Citizen
2 days ago
- The Citizen
Soldiers mourn loss of fellow private in tragic elephant-related incident
The death of a private, a member of the 10 Anti-Air Regiment, has been confirmed by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF). Xavier Raynard was deployed under Operation CORONA in the Madimbo area of Limpopo. He was found dead near the Yellow Gate of the Madimbo Operational Base on Sunday afternoon (July 27). Preliminary reports indicate that he may have been fatally trampled by a herd of elephants while conducting routine patrols in the challenging terrain. The Madimbo Corridor is a northern military base in Limpopo that borders Zimbabwe and is near nature reserves. It is controlled by the SANDF and is used as a military training zone. Raynard was carrying out a patrol along the Malala Drift Road when he was killed. Rear Admiral Prince Tshabalala, director of Defence Corporate Communication, said his service weapon was recovered at the scene. The SANDF is investigating the incident in collaboration with environmental and wildlife authorities to establish what the full circumstances were. Tshabalala confirmed a formal board of inquiry has been launched to provide clarity and accountability. Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga, Chief of the SANDF General Rudzani Maphwanywa, and acting secretary of Defence Dr Thobekile Gamede have extended their deepest condolences to Raynard's family, friends, and fellow soldiers. 'His unwavering commitment to protecting South Africa will be honoured and remembered with great respect,' said Tshabalala. Raynard's next of kin, based in Kimberley, Northern Cape, have been formally notified. Tshabalala pointed out that the SANDF is providing psychosocial support to the family and members of his unit during this difficult time. He explained that Operation CORONA is a critical national initiative aimed at safeguarding South Africa's borders and combating cross-border crime. Deployed members face not only security threats but also harsh environmental conditions and risks from wildlife in remote border regions. 'The South African National Defence Force salutes Private Raynard's sacrifice and dedication. May his soul rest in peace,' said Tshabalala. Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to [email protected] or phone us on 083 625 4114. For free breaking and community news, visit Rekord's websites: Rekord East For more news and interesting articles, like Rekord on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Instagram or TikTok.
IOL News
2 days ago
- IOL News
SANDF soldier trampled to death by elephants during Limpopo patrol
The soldier was deployed under Operation CORONA in the Madimbo area in Limpopo. 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.
