He was part of Operation VIKELA, South Africa’s contribution to the Southern African Development Community Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM).

Staff Sergeant Van Rooyen reported at Mihluri base where he presented with a severe headache and chest complications before being transferred to level 2 hospital in Pemba.

Staff Sergeant Van Rooyen was from 2 Field Engineer Regiment in Kroonstad. His remains will be repatriated to South Africa where the SANDF and his family will finalise funeral arrangements.

The Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thandi Modise, the Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Thabang Makwetla, the Secretary for Defence, Ambassador Sonto Kudjoe, and the Chief of the South African National Defence Force, General Rudzani Maphwanya extended their condolences to the family, colleagues and friends of Staff Sergeant Van Rooyen.

Statement supplied.