The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, has strongly condemned the brutal attack on a prosecutor and stenographer at the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
Preliminary reports indicate that the suspect, convicted of common robbery and damage to property by the magistrate, broke a bottle and attempted to stab both the prosecutor and stenographer immediately after the verdict was delivered.
As the police are currently investigating the matter, the Department said it is unable to disclose further details at this time.
However, senior management from the department has visited the Mamelodi Court and all staff affected by the incident will receive trauma counselling, the office of the minister said.
Simelane has denounced this act of violence in the strongest terms.
“We will not tolerate such acts of violence in our courts. The suspect will be prosecuted for committing this crime. It is essential that our courts remain free to fulfil their constitutionally mandated role in administering justice without fear of harm.”
She warned that any assault on court officials undermines the authority of the state and will not be tolerated.
In response to this incident, the minister has directed the Department to urgently conduct a comprehensive security and risk assessment, identify any potential lapses, and implement immediate measures to address any gaps.
Pretoria News