SANDF Accuses UN of Bypassing Protocol in Cases of Eight Soldiers for Sexual Misconduct

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has expressed its dissatisfaction with communication processes employed by the United Nations, particularly regarding the recent arrest of eight SANDF soldiers implicated in sexual exploitation allegations and curfew breach during their peacekeeping mission in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

As reported by local media outlets last week, the UN announced the arrest of the SANDF personnel, who stand accused of committing sexual abuse in the volatile region of DRC. The details of these allegations were, however, not communicated directly to the SANDF, leading to the National Defence Force learning about their members' arrest via the media.

Additionally, from the UN, the SANDF received an official report citing serious acts of misconduct by its members stationed in Beni. The report described incidents that reportedly came to light on October 1, 2023, when eight SANDF soldiers were apprehended by the UN military police over accusations and regulations surrounding Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (SEA).

In the wake of this incident, the SANDF revealed in a media statement that the Republic of South Africa, which contributes troops to these peacekeeping missions, was not officially informed of the allegations in line with standard procedures. Instead, they were notably taken aback by revelations made through the media about their implicated members.

In response to this development, the SANDF has made decisive moves. The soldiers in question will be recalled back to South Africa to face the allegations labelled against them. Moreover, the National Investigating Officers (NIOs) have been tasked with conducting a formal investigation in the UN Organization Stabilisation Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) deployment area. The results of this investigation will be used by the SANDF to make further judgements on the matter.

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