The South African National Defense Force (SANDF) is investigating the death of one of its members who is suspected to have been trampled by elephants at Madimbo in Limpopo.

SANDF Spokesperson, Prince Tshabalala, says Private Xavier Raynard was found dead near the gate of the Madimbo base on Sunday.

Tshabalala says Raynard was conducting routine patrols during the SANDF’s Operation Corona – a national initiative to protect the country’s borders.

Tshabalala says Raynard’s service weapon was recovered at the scene.

“Early indications suggest that he may have been fatally trampled by a herd of elephants whilst conducting a routine patrol in the area. His service weapon was recovered at the scene. The matter is currently under investigation by the SANDF authorities in cooperation with environmental and wildlife officials to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. The SANDF has also instituted a formal board of enquiry,” says Tshabalala.