Sihle Makhaye’s remains return to South Africa after 69 days
The mortal remains of Sihle Makhaye, a KwaZulu-Natal man who died in Russia on 28 March, have finally been returned home after a lengthy repatriation process spanning 69 days.
Speaking during a media briefing alongside members of the Makhaye family, KwaZulu-Natal Transport and Human Settlements MEC Siboniso Duma said the department became involved after receiving a request for assistance from Makhaye's wife, Sibonile Ndwandwe, on April. 8.
According to Duma, Ndwandwe informed the department that her husband, who was 44 at the time of his death, had travelled to Russia after being recruited under false pretences. She alleged that upon arrival he was asked to sign a one-year contract and participate in the war between Russia and Ukraine, which he reportedly refused to do.
Duma said details relating to the recruitment process are being handled at a national level by relevant authorities, including the Hawks, and could not be discussed further.
