Municipal workers uncover historic ammunition worth an estimated R7 million in Sunrise

Municipal workers in Sunrise, De Aar, have uncovered a large quantity of historic ammunition with an estimated value of R7 million. The South African Police Service recovered about 15 000 rounds after the workers reported the find on Tuesday, 6 October 2026.

The employees were working near Malay Camp in Sunrise when they came across crates filled with ammunition. They did not touch the items and immediately contacted the police. Officers arrived at the scene and carried out a first check. The ammunition was identified as .303 rounds, which are believed to date back to the Anglo-Boer War.

A team made up of members from the Local Criminal Record Centre, the Explosives Unit, the K9 Unit and Sunrise detectives was sent to the area. An enquiry was opened so that the police could investigate how the ammunition ended up there and who may have been involved.

On Friday, 9 October 2026, the same team returned to the site. They were assisted by military personnel. Together they carefully removed the ammunition. About 15 000 rounds were recovered during the operation. The surrounding area has since been declared safe for residents and workers.

Police say the investigation into the circumstances of the discovery is still continuing. They want to establish the full history of the ammunition and whether anyone stored it illegally. No arrests have been reported at this stage.

The South African Police Service has reminded the public not to handle or move any ammunition or explosive material they may find. People who come across such items should leave the area and report the discovery to the nearest police station or call the emergency number 10111. Handling old ammunition can be dangerous even if it looks worn or damaged.

The find in Sunrise is one of the larger recoveries of historic rounds reported in the Northern Cape in recent years. Police described the cooperation between municipal workers, detectives and military members as important in making sure the ammunition was removed without incident. Residents in the area have been told that the site is now clear, but they should still report any further discoveries straight away. Investigations remain open while authorities examine the recovered rounds and the location where they were found.

Source: https://x.com/SAPoliceService/status/2108636625110815172