SANDF denies failing to co-operate with UN

THE SA National Defence Forces (SANDF) has lashed out at allegations that it failed to co-operate with the UN following reports of abuse and sexual exploitation allegedly by its members against civilians in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The UN said five South African soldiers are facing allegations of sexual misconduct in the DRC for the abuse of four adults and a minor between 2014 and 2016.

“In view of these allegations having surfaced, SANDF swiftly moved to send its legal officers and investigators to the mission area to deal with the efficacy of such reports,” said SANDF spokesperson Mafi Mgobozi.

“Once again it must be noted that these investigations are being conducted in close liaison with the UN office in the (DRC),” he said.

Mgobozi added that they deplored such behaviour from any of its members and took these allegations in the most serious light.

“As previously stated, the SANDF wishes to reiterate its stance against any abuse of civilian members, or the population, where it is deployed in support of the peacekeeping efforts of the UN.

“It is however disturbing and disconcerting, as reported in the media to be accused of not co-operating with the UN in such matters, whereas the truth is the opposite.” The SANDF said it had also reacted with speed to such incidences in the past with the aim of ensuring that there was justice seen to be done.

If there was evidence of wrongdoing by SANDF members it had to be dealt with immediately as has happened before where such allegations were found to be true.

The chief of the SANDF, General Solly Shoke, is on record as having emphasised that ill-discipline and criminal behaviour would not be tolerated and those found to have transgressed the Code of Conduct and Military Disciplinary Code would be dealt with without fear or favour.