Cape Town - The City said it has been assisting in the investigation into an alleged explosive device found at the Cape Town Jewish Community Centre in Hatfield Street, Gardens.

In a statement, the Cape SA Jewish Board of Deputies said the improvised explosive device was found at around 10.30am on Friday.

According to Cape SA Jewish Board of Deputies executive director, Daniel Bloch, the device, which had allegedly been thrown onto the property, had failed to detonate.

“Law enforcement authorities were immediately notified and are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident.

“The Cape SA Jewish Board of Deputies is working together with all sectors of the security cluster to secure the safety of the Jewish community in Cape Town.

“An improvised explosive device was thrown into our complex with the purpose of causing damage and creating fear and intimidation.”

He added that the investigation concluded on Monday by SAPS’ Bomb Disposal Unit, and that the case docket has been transferred to the Hawks for further investigation.

“Despite this attack, our community remains resilient, united and strong, and we will not be intimidated by these haters,” said Bloch.

Police spokesperson, Andrè Traut, confirmed they responded to a possible explosive device found in the parking lot area, and that the case has been assigned to the Hawks for further investigation.

“SAPS K9 and Bomb Disposal Unit members examined the discovery, and after the object was declared safe, it was removed from the premises for the purpose of the investigation,” Traut said.

In a statement yesterday, Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis said City Metro Police assisted with the police investigation.

“The Cape Town Metro Police has assisted SAPS with the analysis of CCTV footage to get to the bottom of the incident, with the City’s support for the investigation being coordinated by the Safety and Security Information Management Services.

“While SAPS has not officially confirmed the nature of the device, they have handed the file over to the Hawks, indicating they view the matter with seriousness,” said Hill-Lewis.

shakirah.thebus@inl.co.za

Cape Argus