UK Tesco stories reopen after security scare

All of the UK Tesco stores closed following a security alert are open today as normal, the retailer confirmed.

A total of 14 supermarkets across Britain were closed yesterday in what some reports said was a bomb scare.

Reports said the motive could range from a financial one to threats by the animal rights lobby.

Yesterday was designated a national day of action against Tesco by animal rights groups including Viva who claim the store has been selling live turtles at outlets in China.

Officers from Hertfordshire in England, where the firm has its headquarters, denied there was a link to any form of extremism.

A Tesco spokeswoman confirmed all 14 stores affected would today re-open as normal.

She said: “All 14 Tesco stores which were closed for a few hours yesterday following a security alert are now open as normal.

“Staff at the affected stores have done a fantastic job during this period and have worked very hard to make sure the stores are fully stocked and ready to welcome customers as usual today. The police are conducting a criminal investigation and Tesco cannot comment further.”

Police said the closures affected stores in Lancashire, Suffolk, Dyfed Powys in Wales, Fife and Strathclyde in Scotland, Leicestershire, Humberside, Herefordshire, West Yorkshire, Nottinghamshire and London.

A police spokesman said: “Police in Hertfordshire have launched a criminal investigation following a series of threats made to 14 Tesco stores.

“Police were alerted immediately and liaised with Tesco throughout the day. Public safety has been of paramount importance to all involved.

“No one has been injured. While the public are advised to remain vigilant we have no reason to believe that the incidents are linked to extremism of any kind.

“The Constabulary has taken the investigation forward as Tesco has its head office in Hertfordshire. Every effort is being made to trace those involved.”