The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a high-level investigation into explosions that occurred at Woolworths stores in the Free State and Gauteng, with national forensic and crime intelligence experts now leading the probe. According to the SAPS website, Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has deployed a National Forensic Task Team alongside Crime Intelligence specialists to investigate the incidents.
Investigation Details
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said investigators are still in the early stages of the inquiry and have not yet determined the motive behind the explosions. “Investigations are currently at a very early stage, and all possible motives are being explored by investigators,” Mathe said. Authorities also cautioned against speculation, stressing that it was too soon to label the incidents as terrorism-related.
The explosions occurred at Woolworths stores in the Free State and Gauteng, with one incident happening at the Menlyn Mall in Pretoria. The police have urged members of the public to remain calm while investigators carry out their work. “The public is urged to remain calm and allow investigators space to conduct their work,” SAPS said. No arrests have been announced, and police have not disclosed whether the explosions at the two provinces are linked.
Security Measures
SAPS said law enforcement agencies remain on high alert while monitoring developments linked to the case. Additional security interventions will depend on the outcome of ongoing investigations and threat assessments. “SAPS remains alert and will continue to assess the situation as investigations unfold,” Mathe said. The South African Police Service is working to determine the cause of the explosions and to ensure public safety.
Some of the key points to note about the investigation include:
- The SAPS has launched a high-level investigation into the explosions
- National forensic and crime intelligence experts are leading the probe
- Investigators are still in the early stages of the inquiry
- The motive behind the explosions has not yet been determined
- Authorities have cautioned against speculation
