R7 Million Cache of Anglo-Boer War Ammunition Discovered in De Aar, South Africa

Sunrise — South African police have recovered approximately 15,000 rounds of ammunition believed to date back to the Anglo-Boer War after municipal workers stumbled upon crates of ammunition in Sunrise, De Aar.

The ammunition, identified as .303 rounds, is estimated to be worth R7 million.

Police on Friday, October 9, said its discovery near Malay Camp on Tuesday, 6 October 2026, triggered an investigation involving police specialists and military personnel.

Municipal employees who found the crates immediately alerted the South African Police Service (SAPS), prompting officers to attend the scene and conduct an initial assessment.

Police subsequently deployed members of the Local Criminal Record Centre, Explosives Unit, K9 Unit and Sunrise detectives to examine the discovery. An enquiry was opened to establish the circumstances surrounding the find.

The recovery operation was conducted yesterday, Friday, when the multidisciplinary team, assisted by military personnel, returned to the site and retrieved the ammunition.

Approximately 15,000 rounds were recovered and authorities have since declared the surrounding area safe.

SAPS said investigations into the circumstances surrounding the discovery are continuing.

South African police have urged the public not to handle or tamper with suspected ammunition or explosives, warning that such materials should be reported to law enforcement immediately.