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 South African Police Service (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.

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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.

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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.

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