SANDF Reservist Fired After Video Shows Him Drunk in Full Military Uniform

• A video showing a South African National Defence Force reservist visibly intoxicated while in full military dress circulated widely on social media
• The SANDF launched an internal investigation after the footage, filmed in a public restroom, triggered public outcry
• Military authorities condemned the reservist's behaviour and moved swiftly to address the matter

SOUTH AFRICA — The South African National Defence Force has terminated a reservist's active call-up after a video showing the member visibly intoxicated in full military uniform spread rapidly across social media.

The footage, filmed inside a public restroom on 13 August 2026, shows the uniformed soldier struggling to keep steady while a bystander confronts him, asking, "Why are you drunk in uniform?" The clip drew significant public attention before the SANDF could act.

SANDF identifies reservist, launches probe

Following the video's circulation, the SANDF conducted an internal investigation that identified the individual as a reservist attached to a military unit in Pretoria. The probe concluded swiftly, with authorities citing a breach of the discipline and conduct standards expected of all defence personnel.

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The SANDF issued a strong condemnation of the reservist's behaviour, describing it as unacceptable and incompatible with the professionalism the armed forces are expected to uphold. Officials reiterated a zero-tolerance stance toward conduct that brings the institution into disrepute or undermines public confidence in the military.

Disciplinary proceedings were instituted, and the reservist's active deployment contract was subsequently terminated.

Read SANDF's statement on X:

Watch the video that triggered the SANDF investigation:

Public reaction mixed online

The footage prompted divided responses from South Africans on social media. While some expressed sympathy, others questioned the member's fitness to serve.

Sbusiso Twala wrote:

"Reserve force… civilians, these ones 🚮"

Ndubuisi George Chigbo said:

"People go through a lot these days and they end up finding solace in alcohol."

A commenter identified as "south" offered:

"Let him be happy. His kids are waiting for him. He is stressed. He sees a lot of things at work. So we drink over the limit and regret it."

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Rayzer Ray noted:

"He's also human, but at the same time, he could have just slept and not gone anywhere."

Mampingandile Mzamisti added:

"People are going through a lot 🤔"

SANDF drill video sparks debate

In a related article, Briefly News reported on a TikTok video showcasing a large formation of uniformed personnel performing coordinated drills, which has sparked mixed reactions among South Africans online. The formation, representing various services, was framed in a ceremonial atmosphere, but many viewers criticized the perceived lack of order and coherence in the display.

Source: Briefly News