Statement on the Death of a South African Pilot in the DRC

Pretoria - The Department of Foreign Affairs has noted media reports on the death of a South African pilot following the plane crash on a UN Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday 1 September 2008.

South Africa’s  diplomatic mission in Kinshasa is in liaison with MONUC officers in the DRC to verify the identity of the deceased pilot with a view to facilitating the repatriation of his mortal remains.

At this stage, we understand that MONUC officers are visiting the crash site where after the South African Mission will be advised of the level of assistance required.

The South African Government extends its heartfelt condolences to all those families who lost their loved ones during this tragedy and in particular the family of the deceased pilot.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853

Department of foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

3 September 2008.