Hoax bombscare shakes shopping centre security
CRESTA – Cresta Shopping Centre management breathes a sigh of relief after a potential bomb threat proved to be false.
After hours of tension, Cresta Shopping Centre was given the ‘all clear’ from authorities after a false bomb threat was made on 21 May.
General manager of Cresta Shopping Centre Deborah Nathan was alerted to this threat via email at 1.30 pm. She explained that the authorities were notified right away. “The bomb squad and dog unit of the SAPS were notified immediately. They responded swiftly and arrived on the scene shortly after the alert. After thorough inspection by the relevant authorities, they gave the centre the all clear,” she said.
Linden Police spokesperson Captain Alex Vermaark confirmed, “After two hours of searching no suspicious package was found. We mobilised immediately, searched the place and asked the tenants to search their places.”
He pointed out that those responsible would face serious consequences should they be caught. “It is illegal to threaten in this manner. Individuals who contemplate this behaviour will face the full force of the law,” he said
Nathan said that the centre views this incident in a most serious light. She explained that the safety of shoppers and tenants is of utmost importance. “We will continue to give full support to the SAPS and other law enforcement organisations in this regard – working together to ensure effective crime prevention,” said Nathan.
The centre management thanked the SAPS, bomb squad, and dog unit for their efficient and professional approach.
There has been no update on how many suspects there were behind the bomb threat.
Details: Cresta Shopping Centre 011 678 5306.
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