The South African Police Service (SAPS) has initiated a high-level investigation following explosions at Woolworths retail stores in both the Free State and Gauteng provinces.

According to police statements, a specialised National Forensic Task Team, supported by Crime Intelligence specialists, has been deployed to lead the inquiry.

The investigation is still in its early stages, and authorities have emphasised that no definitive conclusions have yet been reached regarding the cause or motive behind the incidents.

SAPS Acting National Commissioner Lieutenant General Puleng Dimpane authorised the mobilisation of national-level investigative resources in response to the incidents.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that investigators are actively exploring all possible scenarios, including multiple potential motives, but stressed that speculation at this stage would be premature.Authorities have specifically cautioned against linking the explosions to terrorism, noting that it is too early to classify the events as such.At present, law enforcement agencies remain on high alert while closely monitoring any developments that may be connected to the case.

SAPS has indicated that additional security measures will be considered depending on the findings of ongoing forensic analysis and threat assessments.However, officials have not confirmed whether the incidents in the two provinces are directly linked.No arrests have been made so far, and investigators have not released further details about suspects or the nature of the explosive events.

The police have urged members of the public to remain calm and allow investigative teams sufficient space to carry out their work without interference.Authorities continue to treat the situation with caution as forensic and intelligence-led investigations progress across both affected provinces.