In January of this year, 200 South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops were deployed to the Central African Republic (CAR). Those 200 soliders faught over 3,000 rebels. Hundreds were killed, including 13 SANDF soldiers, before a truce was met. The killing of South African solidiers has been met with intense anger from citizens and political parties, alike.

Of the 200 troops deployed to the CAR, only 20 remain in Bangui. General Jean Felix Akanga, head of the regional peacekeeping force Fomac confirmed the number to the Wall Street Journal.

The SANDF has not made comment regarding the withdrawl of troops, but stated that they were awaiting instructions from government on whether to withdraw or reinforce.

A source from the Daily Maverick did however confirm that South African troops are being withdrawn from CAR. 168 South African soldiers were flown back to Pretoria on Friday, with increased activity at the Waterkloof Air Force Base. The source also claimed that the number of troops left in Bangui was 18.

It is unclear if the remaining troops in Bangui will return home. These soldiers may even belong to the original SANDF mission in CAR, “Operation Vimbezela”, in which 20 to 30 South African solidiers were deployed to provide military training to the CAR army.

Brigadier General Xolani Mabanga, spokesperson for the SANDF failed to confirm the withdrawl of troops. The question still remains as to why the South African National Defense Force has not confirmed that South African soldiers have been withdrawn from CAR.

[Source: Daily Maverick, Washington Post]