Shotgun, rifle and ammunition stolen in Ulundi SAPS K9 Unit break-in, police confirm

Police in Ulundi have launched an investigation after firearms and ammunition were stolen during a break-in at the South African Police Service (SAPS) K9 Unit premises.

According to KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, an unknown number of suspects broke into the police premises, with the incident discovered on Monday morning.

Netshiunda said a police officer who reported for duty at about 5:30am noticed that the door to the Logistics Office was wide open. Upon further inspection, it was established that the back door of the building had been forced open.

“When police opened the strong room, it was discovered that the suspects had gained entry by forcing the roof of the strong room open,” said Netshiunda.

The following items were stolen from the strong room: One R5 rifle, one shotgun, four pistols, 152 rounds of ammunition of a pistol, 290 rounds of R5 rifle, 13 handcuffs, three empty R5 magazine and six empty pistol magazines.

Police have opened a case of theft, and investigations are ongoing. Authorities are also conducting internal processes to determine whether there was any breach of firearm security protocols or negligence in the safeguarding of firearms and ammunition.

Meanwhile, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has expressed grave concern over the incident, in a statement, the DA described the incident as a serious security breach.

The party raised concerns about compliance with firearm storage and security systems at the facility, warning that the stolen weapons could end up in the hands of criminals.

DA MP Mzamo Billy, who is an NCOP Member on Security & Justice, said these weapons are now potentially in the hands of organised criminals and could be used in violent crimes, including attacks against law enforcement officers or innocent civilians.

“As a Member of Parliament serving on the Select Committee on Security and Justice, I will be formally writing to the Acting Minister of Police and the National Commissioner of SAPS demanding:

1. A full incident report on the Ulundi break-in
2. Confirmation of whether all prescribed firearm storage standards were adhered to
3. Details of the steps being taken to recover the stolen weapons
4. Clarity on whether IPID has been notified and is investigating

“The DA believes that professional, disciplined and properly managed policing is essential to restoring safety in our communities. Accountability must follow swiftly where failures are identified.”