An accused individual in police custody was fatally shot on the morning of Monday, May 12, at the Melmoth Magistrate’s Court in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The incident occurred after the accused allegedly overpowered a court orderly and gained access to the officer’s firearm during court proceedings.
According to Terrence Manase, spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development, a second court orderly responded swiftly and decisively to the threat. “Demonstrating exceptional presence of mind, the officer discharged his service weapon, fatally wounding the accused before any further harm could be inflicted,” Manase said.
The accused was declared dead at the scene. Authorities have not yet released the individual’s identity, and an investigation is underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the incident. Manase commended the professionalism and quick action of court officials, stating, “Their response helped avert what could have been a much greater tragedy.”
In response to the incident, the Ministry of Justice has initiated an internal review of security measures at court facilities across the country. Concurrently, the South African Police Service has launched an independent investigation. “A full report will be compiled and shared in due course,” Manase noted.
Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has requested an urgent briefing and emphasized the immediate need to strengthen security protocols in all court environments. “The department is working closely with law enforcement agencies to implement enhanced safety measures aimed at protecting all court users,” Manase added.
Despite the severity of the incident, operations at the Melmoth Magistrate’s Court continued without disruption, with the regional court maintaining its scheduled services to the public.
This event marks the second recent court-related shooting in South Africa. In April, a man was shot and killed shortly after meeting with an attorney at the Wynberg Regional Court in the Western Cape, raising renewed concerns over court security nationwide.