Arms stolen from SA navy base depot
Several weapons, including machine guns, an R1 rifle and hand grenades, were stolen from the armament depot at the SA Navy base in Simon’s Town.
|||Cape Town - Security at the SA Navy base in Simon’s Town - where suspects stole military equipment - was either not up to standard or the crime involves an inside job, military expert Helmoed Heitman said on Wednesday.
The national key point’s armament depot was hit at the weekend.
Unconfirmed reports say that several weapons, including Uzi machine guns, an R1 rifle, ammunition and hand grenades were stolen.
Heitman said the crime was serious and should be followed up.
“Either the security was much weaker than it should have been, or there was involvement by one or more people within the navy. (This is) serious and demands serious follow-up.”
SANDF spokesperson Xolani Mabanga said safety measures at the depot include security guards and access tags needed for people to enter.
“We can’t divulge more than that because it is a security risk. No matter how much security systems you have in place people will always try to get in, just like if you have safety measures at your house.”
The Hawks are investigating a case of housebreaking and theft.
Hawks spokesperson Lloyd Ramovha said: “The exact number of stolen army equipment is yet to be established.
“Investigations are ongoing and no arrests have been made yet.”
Anyone with information regarding any illegal firearms and ammunition can contact Crime Stop on 086 001 0111 or SMS crimeline 32211.
francesca.villette@inl.co.za
@FrancescaJaneV
Cape Times