Explosives and military gear seized in Heidelberg raid
Zuko Komisa
- A 47-year-old Heidelberg man was arrested after a joint EMPD and SAPS raid uncovered a large cache of explosives, firearms, and over 1900 live rounds at a Rietvlei plot.
- The intelligence-driven operation also seized an SANDF military uniform and multiple magazines from the suspect’s property.
- The man faces serious charges and is expected to appear in court soon after being detained at the Heidelberg police station.
A 47-year-old man has been arrested after an intelligence-driven raid on a plot in Rietvlei uncovered a large cache of explosives, military uniforms, and more than 1900 rounds of live ammunition.
The operation, which took place on Monday, 27 October 2025, was carried out by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Intervention Unit in collaboration with Ekurhuleni Crime Intelligence and the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Authorities executed a search warrant following intelligence that the man was in possession of unlicensed firearms and ammunition. The initial search was hampered when the suspect’s wife reportedly refused officers entry and aggressive dogs were loose on the property, requiring the assistance of EMPD and SAPS K9 units to secure the area.
Once the suspect arrived, the search began, leading officers to the main bedroom wardrobe where they found 79 9mm live rounds, R5 magazines, and a full SANDF military uniform.
A subsequent search uncovered an unmounted safe containing the bulk of the haul, including:
- Explosives
- Firearms
- 1907 live rounds (comprising 9mm, R5, R1, .22, and shotgun rounds)
The suspect has been detained at Heidelberg police station and is scheduled to appear in court soon to face multiple charges related to the possession of unlicensed firearms, ammunition, and explosives.