Eswatini: Two U.S. government employees slightly injured, investigation launched

Two U.S. government personnel were slightly injured on Friday evening, September 11, in Maphiveni, northeastern Eswatini, during a military operation against smuggling. Authorities from both countries have opened investigations into the incident.

Thabile Mdluli, the acting spokesperson for the Eswatini government, confirmed to the Associated Press on Tuesday that the two Americans sustained minor injuries. Authorities have not disclosed their identities or the reasons for their presence in the area.

The U.S. State Department stated that it is aware of the incident and assured that the personnel involved are safe. Washington is working with the Eswatini government to establish the exact circumstances, according to the Associated Press.

Army spokesperson Sandile Gwebu described the matter as a diplomatic issue now being addressed by both governments. The Eswatini Defence Force has launched an internal investigation into the events.

The incident occurred in the Lubombo region, near Maphiveni, during an operation targeting alleged smuggling activities. A government statement released on Monday indicated that the events took place around 10:00 pm on September 11 and confirmed the initiation of the military investigation.