Another Woolworths store in South Africa has been hit by an explosive device, with the incident reported in the early hours of Friday, 29 May.

The explosion occurred at Preller Square Shopping Centre and marks the second similar incident involving the retailer in less than 48 hours, following an attack at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre on Thursday morning.

According to representatives at Preller Square Shopping Centre, the incident happened during the early hours of the morning. The Hawks spokesperson, Warrant Officer Fikiswa Matoti, confirmed that it occurred around 3:00 AM.

Matoti said that according to reports, the store manager received a call from a security company informing him about the explosion inside the store.

Center management confirmed that emergency services and the South African Police Service responded promptly to the scene, and the matter is currently under investigation. Management added that because the investigation is ongoing, no further information can be disclosed at this stage. They also confirmed that no one was injured and no major damage resulted from the incident.

Following safety assessments conducted by the relevant authorities, Preller Square was declared safe and has reopened to the public.

The cause of both attacks remains unknown as the police continue to investigate.

Regarding the similar incident at Menlyn Park Shopping Centre, Captain Johan Van Dyk said the store manager reported receiving a call from personnel stationed at the store. They informed him of an explosion inside the shop at 1:00 AM.

Van Dyk said an unknown device allegedly detonated on a store shelf. The store had five packers on duty at the time, but no one was injured. He added that the damage was limited to shelving and food items inside the store.

The United States Embassy and Consulates issued a warning advising US citizens to avoid visiting Menlyn Park Shopping Centre while the cause of the explosion remains unknown.