By JN Reporter
 
After a 10-hour delay, about 249 South African soldiers, originally scheduled to arrive in Bloemfontein at midday, finally landed in Pretoria.
 
The troops are the first batch of SANDF personnel to return home from the conflict-stricken eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
 
Addressing the media earlier on Friday, Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga said she is happy to announce the return of the first group back into the country.
 
“Today, we are delighted to announce to the people of South Africa that the first group of troops who served in this vital mission are due to arrive on South African soil from Tanzania,” said Motshekga.