Police probe Woolworths store explosions as retailer tightens security

MEASURES:  Two explosions at Woolworths outlets in Pretoria and Bloemfontein within 24 hours have triggered a police investigation, with authorities urging calm and cautioning against speculation while the cause remains unknown…

By Lehlohonolo Lehana

South African police are investigating two separate explosions that struck Woolworths stores in Pretoria and Bloemfontein within a span of just over 24 hours, prompting heightened security measures at the retailer’s outlets nationwide.

The first incident occurred at the Woolworths store at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria in the early hours of Thursday morning, while a second explosion was reported at the retailer’s outlet at Preller Square Shopping Centre in Bloemfontein on Friday.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Menlyn Park explosion was reported shortly after 01:00 while staff members were inside the store. Emergency services responded swiftly, and no injuries were reported.

A similar outcome was recorded in Bloemfontein, where no injuries were reported following the second explosion.

The Menlyn Park store has since resumed trading, while the Preller Square outlet remained closed on Friday as investigators continued their work at the scene.

SAPS Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane urged the public to remain calm and allow investigators to establish the facts. “It would be premature to classify these incidents as acts of terrorism at this stage,” Dimpane said, adding that specialised investigators are examining all available evidence.

Woolworths confirmed that it is cooperating fully with law enforcement authorities and has pledged ongoing support to the investigation.

The retailer said customer and employee safety remains its highest priority and that additional security measures have been implemented across its national store network as a precaution.

Incoming Group Chief Executive Officer Sam Ngumeni said the company remained committed to serving customers despite the incidents.

“Woolworths is a proudly South African brand that stands for integrity and the courage to do the right thing,” said Ngumeni.

“We are taking every action and doing everything in our power to protect our people and customers, who remain our first priority.”

He added that the company had strengthened security and intelligence capabilities by bringing in specialist forensic experts to support existing measures and assist authorities where necessary.

“Our doors will stay open, and our values will continue to be evident in every experience and every product, as they have always done,” Ngumeni said.

Authorities have not disclosed any possible motives behind the explosions and have appealed to the public to avoid speculation while investigations continue.

The incidents have raised concerns among shoppers and retailers alike, but police insist it remains too early to draw conclusions about the nature or cause of the blasts.

“It would be premature to classify these incidents as acts of terrorism at this stage.” — Lt Gen Puleng Dimpane, Acting National Commissioner, SAPS. – Fullview