Offender ‘attacks’ prosecutor, stenographer at Mams court
A suspect launched a violent attack on court officials in Mamelodi Magistrate‘s Court on Thursday.
The Justice Department has slammed a convict who attacked court officials, when he allegedly smashed a bottle and attempted to stab the officials on Thursday, August 1.
The convict attempted to stab the court officials following his conviction in Mamelodi. He is due to be sentenced on August 5, 2024.
The man was convicted of common robbery and property damage and launched a brutal attack on a prosecutor and a stenographer at the Mamelodi Magistrate’s Court.
According to the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development spokesperson Tsekiso Machike, the suspect smashed a bottle and attempted to stab the court officials after the delivery of his verdict.
“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.”
He said that while the police investigations are ongoing, the department cannot give out more information on the matter.
“As the police are currently investigating the matter, the department 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 support,” said Machike.
The minister of justice and constitutional development Thembi Simelane strongly condemned the attack on court officials.
She stated that violent behaviour will not be accepted in court.
Simelane further stated that 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,” said Simelane.
She said any assault on court officials undermines the authority of the state and will not be tolerated.
The minister has 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.
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