Agreement Mkhari 
South Africans are growing increasingly concerned as violent incidents involving members of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) continue to claim lives.
In the early hours of Thursday morning, a SANDF soldier in his late 50s was shot and killed near Kurhula Primary School in Lulekani, just outside Phalaborwa. According to initial reports, the shooting happened around 4:00 AM. The soldier was laid to rest on Saturday, 8 June 2025, in Matsumi, Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.
In another shocking incident, two SANDF soldiers were found dead at the Macadamia Military Base in Komatipoort, Mpumalanga, following a stabbing. It is believed that a soldier stabbed two of his colleagues before taking his own life. A third soldier who was also attacked survived the incident.
The SANDF confirmed the tragedy, which unfolded in the early hours of Saturday morning, 21 June 2025. The motive behind the violence remains unknown, and investigations are underway. Police and military officials are working together to uncover the details.
In a statement, the SANDF expressed its deepest condolences to the families and colleagues of the deceased soldiers. The institution says more information will be shared once it is verified.
These recent deaths have raised serious questions about safety, mental health, and security within the SANDF ranks.
