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.
SAPS confirmed that Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane has deployed a National Forensic Task Team alongside Crime Intelligence specialists to investigate the incidents.
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.
“At this stage, it would be premature to classify the incidents as acts of terrorism,” Mathe added.
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 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.
IOL News
