Investigation as military bullets found in boating pond clean-up

Volunteers get shock after man dredges up 50 rounds of ammunition

Police are investigating after a cache of up to 50 rounds of ammunition in a bandolier was recovered from Keptie Pond in Arbroath.

The unusual find was made during the monthly clean-up by local group Keptie Friends.

Group chairwoman Morag Lindsay said: “We usually get together once a month and do litter picking, clearing dog mess, weeding and some grass trimming.

“Our newest member had come equipped with waders, and was in the water cleaning up when he shouted that he had found ammunition.

“There were up to 50 bullets in clips, all within ammo pouches, that I believe are called a bandolier.

“They didn’t look as though they had been in there long as they were in good condition, despite being under water.

“We decided the best thing to do was to call the police, and they are now investigating.

“Obviously we don’t know what else is in there, but this certainly hasn’t put us off from the work we do.”

The rounds appear to be a Nato 5.56mm standard type used in the SA80, the standard issue service rifle used by the British armed forces since 1987. It is not known whether the rounds are standard or “enhanced performance” versions of the ammunition.

Arbroath West and Letham independent councillor David Fairweather has called for a further search of the pond in light of the find.

“This find is deeply concerning and, quite frankly, I’m alarmed at this news,” he said.

“Given the nature and scale of the find, and bearing in mind the bullets do not appear to have been there long, I think a further search of the pond should be considered in order to ensure everything has been recovered.

“I would like to congratulate Keptie Friends on their excellent work – if these bullets had found their way into the wrong hands, who knows what could have happened.”

A police spokesperson said: “Police Scotland can confirm that inquiries are being carried out after ammunition was found within Keptie Pond in Arbroath on Sunday.”

“If anyone has any information as to how the ammunition came to be there, please contact Police Scotland on 101 quoting 1796 of 30 September.”

Up to 50 rounds of ammunition, which does not appear to have been in the water long, were found by a man in waders in Keptie Pond, Arbroath