WO Lucia Govender, spokesperson for the Brakpan SAPS, told the Herald this morning, that the projectile was “accidentally discharged” when members from the Wits Rifle Regiment, based in Germiston, were packing up following a military exhibition at the Pannefees on Saturday.

The Pannefees was held in Dalview on Friday and Saturday.

“The South African National Defence Force conducted an internal investigation at the army base in Germiston and an inventory check was conducted,” said Govender.

“During the check, it was discovered that one mortar projectile had not been booked back in.

“The members were questioned and two admitted that there had been an explosion at about 11am.”

Govender added that further investigations will be conducted.

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