The justice department has slammed an attack on court officials after a guilty verdict was delivered.

Yesterday’s incident is said to have happened after a man was convicted of common robbery and property damage in the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court. He is due to be sentenced on Monday.

The spokesperson of the Justice and Constitutional Development Department, Tsekiso Machike, says: “Preliminary reports indicate that the suspect [sic], 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.”

He adds that while police investigations are ongoing, the department cannot provide more information on the matter.

“Senior management from the department has visited the Mamelodi court and all staff affected by the incident will receive trauma counselling support,” says Machike.

The Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, Thembi Simelane, strongly condemns the attack on court officials.

She states that violent behaviour will not be accepted in court. Simelane adds that the suspect will be prosecuted for the latest crime.

“It is essential that our courts remain free to fulfil their constitutionally mandated role in administering justice without fear of harm,” says Simelane.

She adds that an assault on court officials undermines the authority of the state and will not be tolerated.

The minister directed the department to urgently conduct a comprehensive security and risk assessment to identify any potential lapses and implement immediate measures to address any gaps.