SANDF to probe members refusing to go to Wuhan

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) says it will investigate reports that its members are refusing to be deployed on a mission to repatriate South Africans from the Chinese city of Wuhan following the outbreak of the coronavirus.

SANDF spokesperson Siphiwe Dlamini says it is unacceptable for service men and women to refuse instructions.

The SANDF has been tasked with returning the 184 South Africans from Wuhan city which is the epicentre of the outbreak of the coronavirus.

Originally, 150 people indicated they wanted to return home, but this number has increased to 184.

In the video, Health Minister, Dr Zweli Mkhize gives update on Wuhan evacuation plans:

This is reflected in a letter from President Cyril Ramaphosa to National Assembly Speaker Thandi Modise.

He says this will also be communicated to the National Council of Provinces (NCOP).

In his letter, the President informed the National Assembly that it will cost R25 million to assist the Departments of Health and Department of International Relations and Co-operation (DIRCO) to return the South African citizens back to their county.

The death toll from the coronavirus is increasing everyday. New cases are being reported around the world.

Below is a Live Tracking of the cases, death toll and other information: