DEBATE: Should the SA Mamba be used in the Ukraine conflict?
Questions have been raised over the apparent illegal use of South African-made armoured personnel carriers...
The SA Mamba is a South African-made armoured personnel carrier (APC). There is much debate around whether this weapon should be used in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
The mamba is a 4X4 that was initially designed for “internal security purposes” when they were sold by South Africa to Estonia in Northern Europe.
This vehicle was only to be used by their armed forces. Another party would not be allowed to use this equipment unless a licence is obtained.
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IOL reports that: "According to a military database collector monitoring the conflict – Ukraine Weapons Tracker – the Mamba 4x4’s were handed over to the Ukrainian armed forces by their Estonian allies after the vehicles were refurbished."
The Department of International Relations and Co-operation is not getting involved as it's the Department of Defence that needs to respond to the inquiries.
However, there is yet to be any formal response or press release from this body and questions are still left unanswered.
Since the war began, South Africa has remained neutral despite the effects on our economy.
Furthermore, President Cyril Ramaphosa has repeatedly called for an end to the conflict and the beginning of lasting UN-led peace talks.
Read More: Russia-Ukraine war takes centre stage during Ramaphosa, Scholz discussions
This mamba, much like a real snake, is just as dangerous. Sadly we can't put our trusty snake-catcher Nick Evans on this one..
This vehicle is capable of a wide variety of roles, namely border protection and internal security. One thing is for sure, the machinery belongs to us and we need to take every precaution to ensure that this vehicle does not lead to devastating effects.
We await the response from a government entity on this developing issue. We will bring you the latest news at East Coast Radio.
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Image courtesy of Wikipedia