New Zealand seek answers over death of Ex-SAS soldier in DR Congo

New Zealand has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of Justin Conaglen, a former member of the country’s elite Special Air Service (NZSAS), who died in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) while working for a private military contractor.

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According to The New Zealand Herald on September 25, 2026, Conaglen died just weeks after formally leaving the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), having spent several months on unpaid leave before his departure.

He had reportedly been on unpaid leave since March 2026 before officially leaving the military in August.

Conaglen was an experienced member of the NZSAS, New Zealand’s elite special operations unit. Before joining the force, he served in the Royal New Zealand Air Force, an unusual career pathway for personnel entering the country's special forces.

Following his departure from active military service, Conaglen reportedly transitioned into the private security sector, prompting the NZDF to examine whether he had begun working for a private contractor before formally leaving the military.

His death has brought renewed attention to the growing recruitment of former special forces personnel by private military and security companies operating in conflict-affected regions, including Africa.

Reported $2,000 Daily Earnings

The New Zealand Herald reports that highly specialised former military personnel can secure private security contracts paying up to $2,000 per day, depending on their expertise and operational responsibilities.

Conaglen's case has also highlighted the involvement of former Western special forces personnel in private security operations in the DRC, where armed conflict continues to affect the eastern regions.

Amid ongoing fighting between the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC) and the AFC/M23 movement, the government in Kinshasa has reportedly relied on foreign mercenaries with specialised military and security expertise.

However, there is currently no reliable evidence establishing that Conaglen fought alongside either FARDC or AFC/M23 forces.

What is known is that he was in the DRC working for a private security company when he died, while New Zealand authorities are seeking to establish the circumstances surrounding his death.

Reports indicate that Conaglen was earning approximately $9,000 per month under his contract in the DRC.