Hundreds of people were evacuated from Somerset Mall earlier today (Tuesday 12 November) following a bomb scare that turned out to be a false alarm.
Several videos shared on social media platforms show people scurrying away amid the sounding of alarms.
According to police, they were alerted to a bomb threat around 13:15 and responded immediately.
“Preliminary reports indicate that a bomb note was discovered in one of the bathrooms and security was notified. Police had to take the precaution and summoned the bomb squad as well as sniffer dogs,” said Sergeant Suzan Jantjies, spokesperson for Somerset West police.
The entire mall was evacuated, and the parking lot was eventually almost deserted, with only staff from the various mall tenants watching from a distance.
Some shoppers expressed frustration that they were unable to reach their cars as a result of a cordoned off area, while others refused to comply and drove away nonetheless.
Almost two hours later, just before 14:30, the mall was reopened.
“We can confirm that Somerset Mall was evacuated as a precautionary measure to safeguard our shoppers and tenants. No injuries were sustained during this situation. We are working closely with the police in investigating the matter, as the safety of our customers, tenants and staff is of the utmost importance to us,” read a statement sent to tenants of the mall by management.
“The mall has subsequently been reopened and is now operational. All staff should return to their respective stores and trade should continue as per usual,” it stated.
