Woolworths rocked by explosion at one of South Africa’s top shopping malls

Woolworths said that it is investigating an explosion at its Menlyn Park store and is gathering the facts in collaboration with officials.

On Thursday, 28 May 2026, the South African Police Service (SAPS) said it was investigating an incident.

It explained that it involved an explosive device that detonated inside a retail store at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre in Pretoria.

The explosion occurred at around 01h00 inside a Woolworths store, where an unknown device detonated on a shelf while staff were working nearby.

SAPS Tshwane District spokesperson, Captain Johan van Dyk, said the case related to Section 27(1)(c) of the Explosives Act, Act 26 of 1956.

“This investigation follows an incident where an unknown device detonated inside a retail store at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre,” he said.

The store manager was informed by personnel on duty that a detonation had taken place inside the store. At the time, five store packers were busy working on the floor.

“No injuries were reported. The damage was confined to the shelving and various food items,” Van Dyk said.

First responders included local detectives, the SAPS K9 Unit, Crime Scene Management, and the SAPS Bomb Disposal Unit.

“They immediately descended on the scene to secure the area and process the environment for clues,” he said.

“Police have launched a full investigation into the matter to determine the nature of the device and the motive behind the incident.”

Van Dyk said no arrests have been made at this stage and appealed to anyone with information to contact Crime Stop.

Woolworths confirmed the incident but could not provide further details due to an ongoing investigation.

“Woolworths can confirm that an incident occurred at our Menlyn Park store,” the company said in a statement.

“We are working with officials to understand all the facts before we provide comment. The safety of our people and our customers remains our first priority.”