A police investigation is underway after an explosive device detonated inside a Woolworths store at the popular Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria during the early hours of the morning.
South African Police Service (SAPS) officials confirmed that the blast occurred at approximately 1am while employees were working inside the store. According to preliminary findings, the device exploded on a shelf area within the retailer, causing damage to merchandise and shelving.
No injuries were reported, despite several staff members being close to the scene at the time of the incident.
Captain Johan van Dyk, spokesperson for SAPS Tshwane District, said authorities have opened a case under Section 27(1)(c) of the Explosives Act of 1956.
Investigators are currently trying to establish both the origin of the device and the motive behind the explosion.
Heavy Police Response At The Scene
Emergency response teams and specialised SAPS units were deployed to the shopping centre shortly after the incident was reported.
These included local detectives, the SAPS Bomb Disposal Unit, Crime Scene Management officers, and the K9 Unit.
Police secured the affected area and began processing the scene for forensic evidence while investigators interviewed employees who were present during the blast.
According to SAPS, five store packers were working inside the Woolworths branch when the explosion occurred. Damage was limited mainly to shelving and food products within the affected section of the store.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the device was homemade or commercially manufactured.
No suspects have been arrested at this stage, and police have appealed to the public for information that could assist the investigation.
Residents with knowledge related to the incident have been encouraged to contact the Crime Stop hotline or submit anonymous tips through the MySAPS mobile application.
Security Concerns Rise Around Major Shopping Centres
The incident has renewed attention on security measures at major retail destinations across South Africa.
Menlyn Park Shopping Centre is one of Pretoria’s busiest malls and attracts thousands of shoppers daily. The centre houses major local and international retailers and serves as a key commercial hub in Gauteng.
Although explosions inside retail stores remain relatively uncommon in South Africa, isolated incidents involving suspicious devices and threats at public facilities have occurred in recent years, prompting increased security protocols at malls and transport hubs.
Retailers operating in large shopping centres have increasingly invested in surveillance systems, private security teams, and emergency response planning as concerns over public safety continue to grow.
Woolworths confirmed that an incident had taken place at its Menlyn Park branch and said it was cooperating fully with authorities.
In a statement provided to BusinessTech, the retailer said it was still gathering information before making further comment.
“The safety of our people and our customers remains our first priority,” the company stated.
Police investigations remain ongoing.
Source: BusinessTech, SAPS