By: TPA News Desk | editor@thepointafricanews.com

Bloemfontein — The third contingent of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) troops deployed to the SADC mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has returned home, landing at Bram Fischer International Airport today, military officials confirmed.

Around 220 soldiers were aboard the flight, which was scheduled to arrive between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., according to SANDF spokesperson Rear Admiral Prince Tshabalala. This arrival follows the return of two earlier groups—257 troops landed in Pretoria on Sunday, while the first batch arrived last week.

Their return is part of a strategic phased withdrawal from the SAMIDRC mission, reflecting Pretoria’s shifting engagement. Upon landing, the soldiers will undergo the SANDF’s standard demobilisation programme in Bloemfontein, including health checks, psychological care, and family reunification.

The demobilisation process faced logistical challenges earlier in the operation. The second group had initially landed in Pretoria due to aircraft constraints and then traveled to Bloemfontein by road after Air Tanzania’s Boeing 787 was deemed too large to land at the Bloemfontein airport.

Defense officials say the remaining troops are set to return tomorrow, completing the withdrawal from the five-year-long operation. SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya has praised the soldiers for their commitment to peace in the region, stating the phased return will help ensure a smooth transition home.