Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. A South African soldier was stabbed in the forearm while defending himself against one of 1,174 undocumented Zimbabweans intercepted by the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) on 26 December 2025.
SANDF spokesperson Captain Moses Semono said members of the 1 South African Tank Regiment were responsible for the arrests, which took place at illegal border crossings.
He added that this was the first time the troops had to manage such a large influx of undocumented migrants during the festive season. Said Captain:
“Compounding the situation was the uncharacteristic aggressiveness of the individuals involved. Rifleman T.M. Mokoena sustained a stab wound to his forearm while defending himself against an undocumented person who attempted a life-threatening assault.
“However, due to the high standard of training provided by the Defence Force, Rifleman Mokoena was able to thwart the danger and neutralise the threat without resorting to deadly force.
“Defence Intelligence Services have taken over the matter for further processing.
“Rifleman Mokoena received immediate treatment from our professional medics, who remain on standby for such incidents.”
Captain Semono said undocumented persons were handed over to the South African Immigration Services in good health and without injury. He added:
“Colonel Dikgabane Herold Tladi, the Officer Commanding Joint Tactical Headquarters Limpopo, commended our soldiers for their restraint and professionalism, and wished Rifleman Mokoena a speedy recovery.”
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