Woolworths has issued an official response to the explosion incidents at two of its stores – on two consecutive days, in Pretoria and Bloemfontein respectively.

An email was also sent out directly to customers to assure them that, vigilance has been increased across stores nationwide, and that specialist forensic teams have been contracted to strengthen security and intelligence.

“I understand that times like these can be unsettling and frightening,” stated Spencer Sonn, chief customer officer. “At Woolworths, we are standing strong in the values that have guided us for decades and helped shape the organisation we are today. Targeted attacks will not deter us.”

The Preller Square Shopping Centre in Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein, this morning reopened for business after being temporarily cordoned off following an explosion in Woolworths at around 03:00.

ALSO READ: Early morning blast at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre sparks police investigation

The Hawks’ Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit in Bloemfontein is now formally running the investigation, with the local SAPS Explosives unit and other relevant stakeholders remaining on the scene for several hours after the incident as investigations into the cause of the explosion continued.

Shoppers and employees were initially permitted to re-enter the centre, while police officers – including investigators – and private security personnel continued to maintain a presence on the scene. Details surrounding the incident remain limited.

According to reports, at around 03:00 on Friday 29 May, the store manager received a call from a security company informing him about an explosion inside the store.

Police have not yet confirmed the findings of their investigation into the matter.

Woolworths responds

South African retail giant Woolworths has confirmed that two of its stores were targeted by improvised explosive devices within 24 hours of each other, with incidents occurring at its Menlyn Park branch in Pretoria and Preller Square store in Bloemfontein.

The first blast occurred in the early hours of Thursday (28 May) at approximately 01:00 at the Woolworths Menlyn Park store in Pretoria. A second device was detonated the following morning, Friday (29 May), at around the same time at the Preller Square branch in Bloemfontein.

No injuries were reported in either incident, as both explosions occurred when the stores were closed to the public. The retailer confirmed that all staff members were safe, though some have been affected by the events and are receiving support from the company.

The Menlyn Park store has since reopened to customers, whilst the Preller Square branch remains closed pending the outcome of the investigation.

Woolworths said the SAPS was notified immediately following both incidents. Thorough sweeps of the affected areas were conducted to ensure no further threats were present, and the Hawks have been appointed to investigate the attacks.The retailer has not disclosed information regarding the nature of the devices or the motive behind the attacks, stating that investigations are ongoing.

As a precautionary measure, Woolworths has increased security vigilance across all its stores nationwide. The company has also contracted specialist forensic experts to strengthen security and intelligence operations in support of the authorities’ investigation.

Sam Ngumeni, incoming Group CEO of Woolworths, addressed the incidents: “Woolworths is a proudly South African brand that stands for integrity and the courage to do the right thing. We are taking every action and doing everything in our power to protect our people and customers, who remain our first priority. An attack on our business is an attack on our values, and the millions of people we serve.”

He added: “Our business has thrived for nearly a century because our people make the decision each day to show up and excel. That won’t change. Our doors will stay open, and our values will continue to be evident in every experience, and every product, as they have always done.”

The retailer has pledged full cooperation with authorities as the investigation continues.

• This is a developing story. Further details will be provided as they become available.