Explosion at Woolworths in top South African shopping mall
The South African Police Service (SAPS) is investigating an incident involving an explosive device that detonated inside a retail store at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria.
According to SAPS, the incident happened at around 01h00 inside a Woolworths store, where an unknown device exploded on one of the shelves while staff members were working nearby.
“The police in Pretoria are investigating a case in terms of Section 27(1)(c) of the Explosives Act, Act 26 of 1956,” said Captain Johan van Dyk, SAPS Tshwane District spokesperson.
“This investigation follows an incident where an unknown device detonated inside a retail store at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre.”
Van Dyk said the store manager was informed by personnel on duty that a detonation had taken place inside the store. At the time, five store packers were busy working on the floor.
Fortunately, no injuries were reported in the incident. “The damage was confined to the shelving and various food items,” he said.
Police said several specialised SAPS units responded to the scene immediately after the explosion. These included local detectives, the SAPS K9 Unit, Crime Scene Management, and the SAPS Bomb Disposal Unit.
“First responders immediately descended on the scene to secure the area and process the environment for clues,” said van Dyk.
Authorities have since launched a full investigation to determine both the nature of the device and the motive behind the incident.
“Police have launched a full investigation into the matter to determine the nature of the device and the motive behind the incident. No arrests have been made at this stage,” he added.
SAPS has appealed to members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist investigators.
“We appeal to anyone who might have information that can assist the police in their investigation to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or send information via the MySAPS App. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” said van Dyk.
Woolworths confirmed the incident and told BusinessTech that it was still gathering facts.
“Woolworths can confirm that an incident occurred at our Menlyn Park store, and we are working with officials to understand all the facts before we provide comment,” it said.
“The safety of our people and our customers remains our first priority.”