Pretoria – The theft of multiple R4 rifles and 40 mm rocket launchers from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) Tekbase facility at Lyttelton Military Base in Pretoria puts the spotlight on the integrity of its security systems.
Commenting on the matter, the Public Servants Association (PSA) expressed “extreme concern and unequivocal condemnation” of the recent security breach at the Tekbase facility.
“The theft of high-grade military weaponry raises urgent questions about the integrity of security systems at SANDF facilities and the accountability of those entrusted with safeguarding these critical assets,” the PSA said on Monday, 4 May 2026.
“This alarming incident represents a failure of internal controls and a significant threat to national security.”
Even more alarming was that this incident was not isolated.
It follows closely after the 2025 theft at Bloemspruit Air Force Base, where serious lapses in security infrastructure, including broken alarm systems and unmonitored surveillance, were cited as contributing factors.
The PSA said the recurrence of such breaches points to systemic weaknesses that require immediate and decisive intervention.
“If heavily guarded military installations can be compromised so easily, what assurances can be given to the citizens of South Africa regarding their safety?” asked the concerned union.
“The potential circulation of military-grade weapons in the public domain poses a direct and unacceptable risk to communities.”
The PSA called on the SANDF leadership and the Department of Defence to conduct an urgent, comprehensive audit of security systems across all military bases.
“Those responsible must be held accountable for negligence or complicity in these breaches,” the union stated.
“Robust, modernised surveillance and access control systems must be implemented.
“Internal vetting processes must be strengthened to prevent insider threats.”
The PSA also urged Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans to exercise rigorous oversight and ensure that corrective measures were implemented without delay.
“South Africans deserve a defence force that is disciplined, secure, and capable of protecting its assets and citizens,” the union said.
“Continued failures of this nature erode public trust and compromise the mandate of the SANDF.”
The PSA said it will monitor developments closely and advocate for accountability and reform in the interest of public safety.
