Police are investigating after a cache of up to fifty 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 chair 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 fifty 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 underwater.
“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 5.56mm NATO 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 know what could have happened.”
A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “Police Scotland can confirm that enquiries 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.”
