German lorry robbed of large quantities of ammunition

The German Defence Ministry confirmed that a large quantity of ammunition was stolen from a delivery truck in Burg, a town in eastern Germany. Officials have not disclosed the exact number of rounds taken. However, Der Spiegel magazine cited an unnamed source claiming the total is near 20,000 rounds.

The theft reportedly occurred on the night of 25 November when the driver, employed by a civilian logistics company under contract with the military, left the vehicle in an unsecured parking area. The following day, upon arrival at Clausewitz Barracks, the shipment was discovered missing.

The missing ammunition reportedly included approximately 10,000 live pistol rounds, 9,900 blank rifle rounds, and several smoke grenades, according to German media reports. No arrests or suspects have been publicly announced, raising concerns over who may have gained access to the stolen supplies.

"The theft is treated with utmost seriousness, as such ammunition must not fall into unauthorized hands," the Defence Ministry stated.

German public broadcaster MDR noted that the investigation will examine why the driver did not choose a secure location for the overnight stop. Authorities highlighted that a special hotline exists for drivers needing guidance, and military escort can be arranged if necessary. The driver reportedly stayed at a nearby hotel while leaving the truck unattended.

This incident is the latest in a string of ammunition-related thefts in Saxony-Anhalt. Earlier reports include 90 rounds stolen in Bernburg in August and 180 rounds taken in Eisleben weeks before. Authorities have not confirmed any links between these events.

Author: Grace Ellison