**Family Seeks Closure Amidst Tragedy**
The family of Pieter Strydom, a South African National Defence Force (SANDF) soldier killed in a bombing in Sake, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), is struggling to find closure as his body remains in a mobile mortuary controlled by rebels. His father, Pieter Strydom Sr., believes his son’s death could have been avoided if the military had granted his request to return home due to deteriorating mental health.
**A Soldier’s Journey to the DRC**
Strydom Jr., 34, was a father of three and had served in the military since 2010 as a chef in the ASB unit in Kimberly. In November 2023, he traveled to Luanda, Angola, for training before being deployed to the DRC in April 2024. Initially, he was assigned to Goma, a relatively safer location, but was later stationed in Sake, an area heavily affected by ongoing conflict.
## **Dangerous Conditions and Makeshift Bunkers**
Upon arriving in Sake, Strydom quickly realized the dire conditions. Bombs and bullets were a constant threat, and he was particularly concerned about the lack of proper shelters.
“They dug trenches and covered them with a few tires and sandbags. That’s it,” his father explained. “There wasn’t enough space for all the soldiers to hide at the same time. When bombs started falling, it was first come, first serve. If there was no room, you had to hide under a truck or a tree.”
## **Desperate Plea for Release Ignored**
As the conflict intensified, Strydom’s mental health suffered. About two months ago, he formally requested to be released from his duties, citing severe emotional distress. However, his plea was denied, and he was forced to continue serving.
“My child would be alive today if the military had sent him home when he asked. He was scared and depressed, but they refused to listen,” said Strydom Sr.
## **Tragic Death Amidst Bombardment**
On the fateful day, five soldiers, including Strydom, were caught in a bombing attack. Four died instantly, while Strydom bled to death shortly after. His family is devastated, believing his death was preventable.
“I am heartbroken, my wife is heartbroken, his wife is heartbroken, and his three children are heartbroken because this could have been avoided,” said his father.
## **Struggle to Bring His Body Home**
Adding to their grief, the family is unable to bring Strydom’s body home as it remains in rebel-controlled territory. His father questions why his son’s remains couldn’t be transported back when South Africa deployed additional troops to the region.
“We can’t get closure because his body is still in the DRC,” he said.
## **A Call for Answers**
Strydom’s tragic death has raised serious concerns about the treatment of soldiers deployed in high-risk areas. His family is demanding accountability from SANDF, questioning why his requests for release were ignored and why proper safety measures weren’t in place.
As the conflict in the DRC continues, the fate of fallen soldiers like Strydom remains a painful reminder of the risks they face and the urgent need for better support systems.