Woolworths in Bloemfontein becomes 2nd store to be rocked by explosion
The Hawks are investigating after an explosion at a Woolworths store in the Free State, following a similar incident at another Woolworths branch in Gauteng yesterday.
Update at 16:51
Woolworths has announced increased safety measures after explosive devices were detonated in Pretoria and Bloemfontein stores.
Read the update here.
Published at 12:14
The Hawks are investigating after two Woolworths stores in two provinces were hit by explosions in two days.
The first occurred yesterday morning at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria, followed by one this morning at Preller Square in Bloemfontein.
Bloemfontein Courant reports that Free State police spokesperson Mahlomola Kareli said the police explosive unit remains on scene conducting investigations and ensuring there are no additional explosive devices in the area.
He confirmed that Preller Square was temporarily cordoned off following the incident, but has since partially reopened to the public. “For now, other parts of the mall are open to the public and workers, but the side where the explosion happened is sealed off. Owners of the building are still checking to see if there is any damage to the property,” he added.
Kareli said the case has been handed over to the Hawks for further investigation.
No injuries have been reported at this stage.
First explosion
While it is yet to be confirmed if these incidents are linked, there are some similarities. Both incidents occurred early in the morning, and both at the same chain stores – although in different provinces.
Pretoria Rekord reported yesterday that police spokesperson Captain Johan van Dyk said preliminary investigations showed the store manager received a call from a staff member informing him of an explosion that occurred at around 01:00. “Emergency response services were activated and responded immediately and cordoned off the scene,” said Van Dyk.
He said it is alleged that an unknown explosive device detonated on one of the store shelves.
“At the time of the incident, five packers were on duty inside the store. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. Damage sustained was limited to food items and shelving inside the store.”
He added that members attached to the SAPS Bomb Disposal Unit, K9 Unit, Crime Scene Management and detectives were on the scene processing evidence and following leads.
A case of contravention of the Explosives Act, Act 26 of 1956, Section 27(1)(c), was registered for investigation. “Police investigations are continuing,” said Van Dyk.
In a statement, Preller Square management confirmed the incident and expressed gratitude that no injuries or major damage were reported. The statement said that the centre had re-opened to the public after safety assessments.
Caxton Network News has reached out to Woolworths for comment.
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Read original story on www.bloemfonteincourant.co.za
