Police are investigating after an explosive device detonated inside a Woolworths store at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria.
According to the South African Police Service, the incident happened at around 01:00 inside the retail store while staff members were working nearby.
SAPS Tshwane District spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said police were investigating a case under Section 27(1)(c) of the Explosives Act.
“This investigation follows an incident where an unknown device detonated inside a retail store at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre,” Van Dyk said.
Staff were working nearby
Van Dyk said the store manager was told by staff on duty that a detonation had taken place inside the shop.
At the time, five store packers were working on the floor.
No injuries were reported.
Police said the damage was limited to shelving and various food items.
“The damage was confined to the shelving and various food items,” Van Dyk said.
Bomb disposal unit called in
Several specialised SAPS units responded to the scene after the explosion.
These included local detectives, the SAPS K9 Unit, Crime Scene Management and the SAPS Bomb Disposal Unit.
Van Dyk said first responders moved quickly to secure the scene and search for clues.
“First responders immediately descended on the scene to secure the area and process the environment for clues,” he said.
Police have launched a full investigation to determine what kind of device was used and why it was placed inside the store.
No arrests have been made.
SAPS appeals for information
SAPS has urged anyone with information to come forward.
“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,” Van Dyk said.
He said all information would be treated with strict confidentiality.
Woolworths confirmed the incident to BusinessTech and said it was still working with officials to establish the 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,” the retailer said.
“The safety of our people and our customers remains our first priority.”