Justice Minister Condemns Court Attack and Orders Security Review

The assault occurred after a verdict was delivered against a suspect convicted of common robbery and damage to property.

Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, has condemned the violent attack on a prosecutor and a stenographer at the Mamelodi Magistrates' Court in Pretoria on Wednesday. The assault occurred after a verdict was delivered against a suspect convicted of common robbery and damage to property.

Simelane described the attack, in which the suspect used a broken bottle, as unacceptable. "We will not tolerate such acts of violence in our courts. The suspect will be prosecuted for this crime. It is essential that our courts remain free to fulfil their constitutionally mandated role in administering justice without fear of harm," she stated. She emphasized that any assault on court officials undermines the authority of the state and will not be tolerated.

The department has confirmed that an investigation is underway, led by the police. Senior management from the department has visited the court to offer support, and all staff affected by the incident will receive trauma counseling.

In response to the incident, Simelane has directed the department to conduct a comprehensive security and risk assessment of the Mamelodi Magistrates' Court. The goal is to identify and address any potential security lapses to ensure such incidents do not recur.