South African law enforcement has activated a high-level investigative response following explosive incidents at two Woolworths retail locations in Gauteng and the Free State.
Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has deployed a National Forensic Task Team, working in conjunction with Crime Intelligence specialists, to examine the circumstances surrounding the detonations that occurred last week at Woolworths outlets in Menlyn Park Shopping Centre (Pretoria) and Preller Square Shopping Centre (Bloemfontein).
In a briefing released by the South African Police Service (SAPS), officials stressed that the probe is still in its initial phases. Investigators are reportedly examining a wide range of potential motivations behind the incidents.
SAPS explicitly advised against drawing early conclusions regarding the nature of the attacks. “At this stage, it would be premature to classify the incidents as acts of terrorism,” the statement noted, adding that the service remains vigilant and will continuously evaluate developments as the inquiry progresses.
Security protocols around the affected sites—or any locations potentially linked to the investigation—will be adjusted based on real-time threat analysis and forensic findings. Authorities have appealed to the public to stay composed and to avoid interfering with the operational integrity of the investigative process.
The devices were detonated at the two shopping centres last week. No injuries or fatalities have been reported in connection with the explosions. Forensic analysts are currently processing evidence from both scenes, while detectives work to determine whether the incidents are operationally linked.
SAPS has not disclosed whether any suspects have been identified, and no organization has claimed responsibility for the acts. The police have encouraged members of the public with relevant information to contact investigators to support the ongoing inquiry.
*This report is based on official statements from the South African Police Service. Further updates will follow as the investigation advances.*