Mortar Bomb event in North-Kivu, Goma area, Congo, the Democratic Republic of the on Wed 14th February 2024

A mortar bomb attack on the South Africa National Defence Force (SANDF) base in Goma, North Kivu Province has resulted in two soldiers killed and three others injured, according to official statements.

The incident, which occurred on Wednesday afternoon, was confirmed by the SANDF in a statement released this morning. The bomb, allegedly dropped by the M23 rebels, struck the military base, causing casualties and injuries among SANDF personnel.

“The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) confirms that on 14 February 2024 at about 13h00, a mortar bomb landed inside one of the South African Contingent military bases inflicting casualties and injuries to the SANDF soldiers,” the statement reads.

The attack resulted in two fatalities and three injuries, with the wounded soldiers receiving medical attention at the nearest hospital in Goma.

South Africa’s contingent forms part of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), tasked with supporting and assisting the Congolese army in its efforts to combat the M23 rebels.

The M23 fighters have been steadily advancing towards the strategic city of Goma, seizing control of several towns and villages along the way. The attack on the SANDF base underscores the escalating violence and instability in the region, posing significant challenges to efforts aimed at restoring peace and security.

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of military personnel involved in peacekeeping operations in the DRC and highlights the ongoing threat posed by armed rebel groups operating in the area.