Four Malawi Defense Force (MDF) soldiers have been killed while on a peace keeping mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

MDF spokesperson, Major Paul Chiphwanya said ten others were injured during an attack by rebels during an operation on Wednesday.

He identified the deceased as Sgt. Steven Kambalame, Private Chauncy Chitete, Private Benjamin Nsongela and Private Simplex Taferakaso.

According to Major Chiphwanya the late Private Taferakaso, 31, was based at Changalume Barracks in Zomba and he hailed from Kaumphawi village TA Nsamala in Balaka district, and late Private Nsongela, 29, was based at Moyale Barracks in Mzuzu and he hails from Chikhawo village, TA Tengani in Nsanje district. He survived by a wife and three children.

Late Sgt. Kambalame, 30, was based at the Malawi Armed Forces College in Salima, and he hailed from Maya village Traditional (TA) Kachere in Dedza district; late Private Chitete, 29, was based at Moyale Barracks in Mzuzu and he hailed from Peter village TA Mwenemisuku in Chitipa district. He survived by a wife and three children.

Major Chiphwanya said the bodies will be repatriated back home for burial after completion of arrangements by the United Nations.