A rapid response by South African National Defence Force personnel and Tshwane Metro Police stopped a potential threat on Thursday night after an unauthorized vehicle forced its way through the Buccaneer Gate at Waterkloof Air Force Base in Tshwane.
The incident happened around 8 p.m. when the vehicle crashed inside the base’s residential area near the African Aerospace and Defence water hydrants. Three suspects were arrested—one immediately at the scene and two shortly afterward.
Military Police processed the suspects, who will be handed over to Metro Police for further investigation.
Senior SANDF officials praised the swift action. The Chief of the SA Air Force said the quick response showed “vigilance and professionalism,” while the SANDF Chief described the operation as proof of the force’s “readiness, discipline, and dedication to protecting South Africa.”
The Tshwane Metro Police Department is expected to release more details as the investigation continues.
Earlier in the week, the SANDF also addressed concerns about a separate break-in at Bloemspruit Air Force Base in Bloemfontein, clarifying that no arms or combat systems were stolen and that the incident posed no risk to national security.