Woolworths stores targeted in explosive incidents in Pretoria and Bloemfontein

Retail giant Woolworths has confirmed that two of its stores were targeted in separate explosive incidents in the early hours of Thursday and Friday morning.

Woolworths Chief Customer Officer Spencer Sonn said that improvised explosive devices detonated at the retailer’s Menlyn Park store in Pretoria on Thursday, 28 May, and at the Preller Square branch in Bloemfontein on Friday, 29 May. Both incidents occurred between 01:00 and 02:00 while the stores were closed.

Sonn said the Menlyn Park store has since reopened, while the Preller Square branch remains temporarily closed as investigations continue.

“Most importantly, I’m relieved to share that no one was harmed in either incident,” Sonn said in a statement addressed to customers. “Some staff members are, understandably, shaken by the events and our team is providing all the necessary support.”

The South African Police Service (SAPS) was immediately notified following both incidents and conducted sweeps of the affected areas to ensure there were no additional threats. The Hawks have since been appointed to investigate the matter.

Woolworths said authorities have received the company’s full cooperation as investigations continue. At this stage, no information has been released regarding the motive behind the attacks or the nature of the devices used.

As a precautionary measure, the retailer has increased vigilance across its stores nationwide and contracted specialist forensic teams to strengthen security and intelligence capabilities.

Sonn reassured customers that the incidents would not deter the company from continuing operations.

“Targeted attacks will not deter us. We will keep showing up, keep opening our doors, for you – our customers,” he said.

He added that the safety of employees and customers remains Woolworths’ highest priority.