THREE navy members who lost their lives after a submarine was swept by high waves have been named.
The South African Defence Force (SANDF) spokesman, Brigadier General Andries Mokoena Mahapa, said the deceased officers are Lieutenant-Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector, Master Warrant Officer William Masela Mathipa, and Officer Class One Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela, who was still under training.
“It is with deep sadness that the SANDF announces the tragic loss of three SA Navy submariners off Kommetjie on 20 September on board the SAS MANTHATISI.
"The families of the deceased members have been notified, and military chaplains and social workers are offering support to the family,” Mahapa said.
SANDF said the submarine was en route to Cape Town while conducting a vertical transfer using an SA Air Force Maritime Lynx helicopter in the afternoon on Wednesday, 20 September.
ALSO READ: Tragic: Navy divers drown ahead of big day
It was swept away by high waves at about 2.30pm in Kommetjie. There were seven crew members onboard.
“A surface swimmer was dispatched from the helicopter to assist with the rescue. Unfortunately, the recovery operation was negatively affected by rough sea conditions. A distress call was made to Cape Town Radio, who then dispatched the NSRI from Kommetjie.
“All seven members were recovered, but sadly, there were three fatalities, with one senior officer in critical condition. The remaining members, including the surface swimmer, are currently being treated in hospital," SANDF said in a statement.
The chairman of the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans, Cyril Xaba, said they were saddened.
“The committee wishes those who survived the accident a speedy recovery,” said Xaba.
