Heidelberg Man Arrested After Explosives, Ammunition And Military Gear Found In Rietvlei Raid

A 47-year-old man has been taken into custody following a major raid in Rietvlei, Heidelberg, that led to the discovery of explosives, military gear, and over 1,900 rounds of live ammunition.

The operation, conducted on Monday, 27 October 2025, was the result of an intelligence-driven investigation by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Intervention Unit, working alongside Ekurhuleni Crime Intelligence and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

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Authorities executed a search warrant after receiving credible information suggesting the man was in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition.

However, the initial phase of the search proved challenging when the suspect’s wife allegedly refused officers entry. Aggressive dogs on the premises further delayed proceedings, prompting the involvement of EMPD and SAPS K9 units to secure the area safely.

Heidelberg Raid: Police Recover Explosives and Over 1,900 Rounds of Ammunition

Once the suspect arrived at the property, the search resumed. Officers began combing through the premises and uncovered 79 live 9mm rounds, R5 magazines, and a full South African National Defence Force (SANDF) uniform hidden inside a wardrobe in the main bedroom.

Further inspection led investigators to an unmounted safe containing the majority of the illegal cache. Inside, police discovered explosives, firearms, and 1,907 live rounds of ammunition, including 9mm, R5, R1, .22, and shotgun rounds.

The suspect was detained at the Heidelberg Police Station and is expected to appear in court soon. He faces multiple charges linked to the unlawful possession of firearms, ammunition, and explosives.

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