South African Defence Force (SANDF) members have paid tribute to one of their own in Kimberley, Northern Cape.

Speaking at the funeral of Xavier Raynard, the soldiers said the SANDF has lost a great asset.

Raynard, a member of the 10 Anti-Air Regiment, was found dead on the 27th of last month near the Madimbo Operational Base, in Limpopo, where he was deployed.

The SANDF says early indications suggest that he might have been trampled by a herd of elephants while conducting routine patrols in the area.

Major Mbongeni Shibase praised Raynard for his dedication.

[WATCH] The SANDF has paid tribute to Rifleman Xavier Raynard, who died after allegedly being trampled by elephants during deployment to Limpopo. His funeral was held in his hometown of Kimberley, Northern Cape. pic.twitter.com/aLGKXRfKWr

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“From every corner, our members have been experiencing pain and outrage at the death of this young and brave man. We salute and honour him for the supreme sacrifice he has paid for the achievement of peace and stability in South Africa,” says Shibase.

VIDEO | SANDF mourns rifleman Raynard’s tragic death