By Augustine Ehikioya
The South Athcan National Defence Force (SANDF) has faulted a widespread circulation of a video on social media with misleading claims that the SANDF forces surrendered to M23 rebels.
A statement issued on Tuesday by Mr Siphlee Diamin, Head of Communication Department of Defence, (Defence Headquarters), Pretoria, and made available to Security Watch Africa (SWA), declared that SANDF is fully commited to its peacekeeping responsibilities.
It reads “We wish to set the record straight. The footage in question depicts a white flag raised, which is an outcome of discussions between the opposing fighting forces to agree on a truce to allow M23 to recover their dead and injured in the vicinity of our base.
“This will also open the route for our troops to access medical facilities. This is common pradice in any war Let members of the public not be alarmed by a video clip and its meaning
“The SANDF remains fully commited to its peacekeeping responsibilities under the United Nations Stabilisation Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (MONUSCO) and SADO Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (SAMADRC).
“Our troops continue to operate with resolve, courage, and discipline in pursuit of peace and stability in the region.”it stated.