Explosive that went off in Woolworths store – Photos
An explosive device detonated inside a Woolworths store at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria on Thursday morning, which left significant damage to part of the store.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that the incident took place at around 01h00 on 28 May while staff members were working inside the store.
According to SAPS Tshwane District spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk, an unknown device exploded on a shelf inside the Woolworths branch.
“The police in Pretoria are investigating a case in terms of Section 27(1)(c) of the Explosives Act, Act 26 of 1956,” said van Dyk.
“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 alerted by staff on duty after the explosion. Despite the severity of the blast, no injuries were reported.
“Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The damage was confined to the shelving and various food items,” he said.
Images released by SAPS show extensive destruction in the breakfast cereal aisle, where the blast appears to have ripped through shelving and scattered cereal boxes across a large section of the floor.
The photos reveal twisted metal shelving, shattered panels and products strewn throughout the aisle.
A large hole is visible in one of the metal display panels, while much of the shelving structure was destroyed by the explosion.
Police said several specialised SAPS units were deployed to the scene immediately after the blast, including local detectives, the SAPS K9 Unit, Crime Scene Management teams 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 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.
Woolworths confirmed the incident in a statement and expressed relief that no staff members were harmed.
The retailer said the store reopened at 13:00 after police determined that it was safe to resume operations.
“We understand this news may be concerning for our people, customers and community,” the company said.
“As a precaution, we have heightened vigilance and surveillance across our stores. The safety of our people and our customers remains our highest priority, and Woolworths is fully committed to maintaining a secure environment.”
Images of the damage caused by the explosion
Loading ...