Sandf Says Safety Measures Implemented For Withdrawal From Drc

The South African National Defence Force SANDF says it has implemented precautionary measures to ensure the safety of its personnel and equipment during the phased withdrawal of its troops from the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo DRC.

The withdrawal which began early this week, follows the directive from the Southern African Development Community SADC heads of state summit in March, that approved troops leaving via Rwanda and Tanzania.

The Defence Force has indicated that an agreement had been reached with M23 that they will collect their weapons and equipment.

M23 rebels have taken control of significant areas in the Eastern Congo including the Goma Airport. Earlier this year the SANDF lost 14 troops in the battle for Goma.

Recently, the SADC leaders decided to withdraw the mission in phases after they held joint summit with the leaders from the East African Community.