Retail giant Woolworths has announced enhanced security measures across its stores nationwide after two of its branches were targeted in separate explosions last week.
The company confirmed that improvised explosive devices detonated at two stores during the early hours of Thursday, 28 May, and Friday, 29 May.
The first incident occurred at the Menlyn Park shopping centre in Pretoria, while the second took place at the Preller Square branch in Bloemfontein.
According to Woolworths, both explosions happened between 1am and 2am while the stores were closed to the public. No injuries were reported in either incident.
"This week, Woolworths was the target of two separate incidents in our stores," the retailer said in a statement.
The company confirmed that the Menlyn Park branch has since resumed operations, while the Preller Square store remains closed as investigations continue.
"Most importantly, Woolworths is relieved to share that no one was harmed in either incident," the company said.
Woolworths acknowledged that some employees had been emotionally affected by the incidents and said support services were being provided to staff members.
"Some staff members have, understandably, been affected by the events and Woolworths is providing all of the necessary support to our teams," the retailer said.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) was notified immediately after both incidents, and thorough security sweeps were conducted at the affected stores to ensure there were no further threats.
The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, commonly known as the Hawks, has been tasked with investigating the explosions.
Woolworths said it is cooperating fully with law enforcement agencies and assisting investigators as they work to determine the circumstances surrounding the attacks.
"At this stage, no further information on the nature of the devices or the motive behind these attacks is available," the company said.
As a precautionary measure, Woolworths has increased security and vigilance at all its stores across the country. The retailer has also enlisted specialist forensic experts to bolster its security and intelligence capabilities alongside ongoing police investigations.
"Vigilance across Woolworths stores nationwide has increased, and specialist forensic experts have been contracted to strengthen security and intelligence," the statement said.
Incoming Woolworths Group CEO, Sam Ngumeni, reaffirmed the company's commitment to the safety of its customers and employees.
"Woolworths is a proudly South African brand that stands for integrity and the courage to do the right thing," Ngumeni said.
"We are taking every action and doing everything in our power to protect our people and customers, who remain our first priority."
Despite the incidents, Ngumeni said the retailer would continue operating as normal.
"Our doors will stay open, and our values will continue to be evident in every experience, and every product, as they have always been," he said.
Investigations into the explosions remain ongoing, with authorities yet to determine the motive behind the attacks.