By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The human remains believed to be that of the missing South African National Defence Force (SANDF) member have been discovered in the Nkomazi River, in the area between South Africa and Mozambique.
According to the Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, the remains were discovered by a local fisherman.
The discovery comes four days after two SANDF soldiers were swept away by raging floodwaters on Christmas Day while attempting to cross a low-lying bridge during a routine Operation Corona patrol.
One soldier’s body was recovered on Friday, December 26.
The search is now moving towards the Mozambican border, with Mdhluli saying they are using drones to search for the missing SANDF member.
Mdluli added that they cannot conclude that the remains found are that of missing soldier, they still have to conduct the DNA tests.
“Specialized search-and-rescue teams from the South African Police Service (SAPS) are expected to continue operations in the area to determine whether additional remains can be located and to assist investigators with identification, he said.”
“Further updates will be provided once confirmation processes are complete, explained Mdluli.”
Meanwhile the National secretary of the South African National Defence Union Pikkie Greeff says there was no specific deviation from the norm during the patrol leading the the two members being swept away by a strong current in the flooded Nkomazi River.