Ba-Phalaborwa mourns the passing of DRC-based soldier
Mayor of the Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality Merriam Malatji has sent her condolences following the passing of Matome Justice Malesa, a soldier who tragically lost his life while serving his country in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Malesa, a member of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), is amongst the 13 soldiers who recently lost their lives in Goma. Malesa, who was born at Mashishimale, Matshelapata in Mopani, served the army for 20 years.
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The father of three has been hailed for the sacrifices he made during his two decades serving the country.
“Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality is devastated by this tragic loss,” said Mayor Merriam Malatji.

A SOLDIER FROM BA-PHALABORWA HAILED FOR HIS BRAVERY AFTER LOSING HIS LIFE IN THE DRC
“Malesa was a true hero who dedicated his life to serving his country. His bravery and sacrifice will forever be remembered. Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to the Malesa family during this difficult time.
“The Municipality extends its heartfelt sympathies and condolences to the bereaved family and stands in solidarity with them during this period of mourning.”
Meanwhile, following an exchange of mortar bomb between the FARDC, Congolese Defence Force and the M23 rebel militia on Monday near Goma Airport in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo where the SANDF Base is located, three members of the SANDF were caught in the crossfire and were killed.
The M23 rebels launched several mortar bombs in the direction of Goma Airport, which landed in the SANDF base, and this resulted in the SANDF losing three members.
Furthermore, one member who was injured during the battle with M23 rebels over the past three days later succumbed to injuries.
This brings to 13 the total number of members of the SANDF killed in the region in less than a week. The rest of the injured members continue to receive medical attention at the Level 3 Hospital in Goma.