When security personnel opened the premises on Tuesday, 29 April 2025, they discovered clear signs of forced entry and immediately alerted the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The site was secured and officially declared a crime scene.

The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigations (the Hawks) has since taken over the investigation.

“From initial assessments, it is evident that significant damage was done to both the building and its internal infrastructure, said Kouga Municipal Manager, Charl du Plessis.

“The alarm system was deliberately and strategically dismantled, suggesting a high level of technical expertise.

“It is clear that those responsible possessed advanced knowledge of security systems and their components,. The intrusion was highly calculated.”

Investigators found that the perpetrators had removed roof sheets to gain access to the building. Thereafter, they entered through the roof into the walk-in safe, using power tools and heavy-duty construction equipment. Two smaller safes inside were then opened using a high-powered grinder.

During the break-in, cash, face-value documents, and firearms were stolen.

“Given the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation, the municipality is unable to provide further details at this time,” said Du Plessis.

“Despite this incident, I want to reassure the public that services remain uninterrupted. The Traffic Department is fully operational, and all sections are delivering services as usual.”