The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) on Thursday released the names of the three South African Navy (SAN) submariners who tragically lost their lives after seven crew members were swept out to sea during particularly rough waves in Kommetjie.

Lieutenant Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector (Executive Officer), Master Warrant Officer William Masela Mathipa (Coxswain) and Warrant Officer Class One Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela (Coxswain under training) died after they were washed off the deck of the submarine SAS Manthatisi (S101) off Kommetjie in Western Cape, on Wednesday.

Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thandi Modise, Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Thabang Makwetla, SANDF Chief General Rudzani Maphwanya, Chief of the SAN Vice Admiral Monde Lobese and Flag Officer Fleet Rear Admiral Musawenkosi Nkomonde have extended their condolences to the bereaved families.

The SANDF said the families of the deceased members have been notified, with military Chaplains and Social Workers offering support to the families.

Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans Cyril Xaba expressed his sadness at the deaths.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) also joined the SAN and the entire defence community in expressing its sympathies.

“We stand in solidarity with the families of the marines. We wish the injured mariners a speedy recovery. As we mourn the passing, let us also recommit ourselves to ensuring the safety and well-being of all those who serve in our defence forces. We owe it to them to continuously strive for an optimally resourced defence force and the highest standards of safety and security to prevent such tragedies from happening in the future,” said DA Shadow Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Kobus Marais.

The Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans commended the joint rescue efforts of the South African Police Services, Emergency Medical Services, National Sea Rescue Institute, the SAN and the South African Air Force for their joint efforts in the rescue operation.

The defence department asked the media and the public to respect the privacy of the bereaved families.