Despite allegations of a hostage and fatal shooting at the Kempton Park Magistrate’s Court, no injuries were reported when the court was temporarily closed on Wednesday morning.

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This comes after people who were inside the court were evacuated, leaving behind court officials. According to Col Lesetja Manewa, Kempton Park SAPS head of detectives, the evacuation was for safety reasons. “We received a call from a prosecutor who informed us they didn’t feel safe inside the court and needed police assistance,” said Manewa.

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“We mobilised the crime prevention unit and upon arrival at the court, police were informed armed bodyguards forced their way inside the court without the court officers’ permission. The officers alleged they had initially denied them entry as they were carrying firearms but they (bodyguards) didn’t cooperate and entered regardless.

“Because their intentions were not known, we thought to tell everyone to go outside for safety reasons while we investigate and handle the situation.”

Everyone, including the bodyguards, were taken outside except court officials, who remained inside the court. “We searched the entire building, including toilets, to ensure there were no bodyguards left on the premises,” explained Manewa.

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“We also learnt the commotion caused was linked to a high profile case involving a suspect who was escorted by the bodyguards, who appeared in court today.

“After the evacuation, we advised the case be given first preference so as to return to normality soonest. As a result, the case proceeded inside regional court one, where it was remanded.”

The suspect and the armed bodyguards left the court and people were then allowed back inside court.

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