Zuko Komisa
- An unknown explosive device detonated inside the Woolworths store at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Pretoria, at approximately 01:00 on Thursday 28 May.
- The blast caused extensive damage to the breakfast cereal aisle, destroying metal shelving and scattering stock, but resulted in zero casualties.
- Specialised police units have secured the scene, and a full investigation is underway under the Explosives Act to determine the device type and motive.
An unknown explosive device detonated inside the Woolworths branch at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria during the early hours of Thursday morning, causing significant structural damage but no injuries.
The blast occurred at approximately 01:00 while night-shift staff were working inside the building.
The store manager was alerted immediately, and specialized police units, including the Bomb Disposal Unit and K9 Unit, were deployed to secure the environment.
Images released by the South African Police Service (SAPS) reveal the force of the blast, which was centered in the breakfast cereal aisle.
The explosion tore through heavy metal structures, leaving twisted shelving, shattered display panels, and a large hole in a fixture, with products strewn across the floor.
Local detectives and crime scene management teams are currently processing the scene for clues, though no arrests have been made and the motive remains unclear.
Woolworths co-operated fully with the authorities and reopened the branch at 13:00 once the area was declared safe. In an official statement, the retailer sought to reassure the public while confirming that security protocols have been intensified nationwide following the incident.
“As a precaution, we have heightened vigilance and surveillance across our stores. The safety of our people and our customers remains our highest priority, and Woolworths is fully committed to maintaining a secure environment.”
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