Ministries in the justice system are intensifying efforts to improve safety at courts in Cape Town after a series of violent attacks.  

A man was killed and two others wounded in shootings outside the Athlone Magistrates Court last week, while another fatal shooting occurred at a Wynberg court in April.

ALSO READ: Breakthrough as alleged Athlone Court shooter is arrested

In response, Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia, Chief Justice Mandisa Maya, Deputy Minister of Justice Andries Nel and Western Cape High Court Judge President Nolwazi Mabindla-Boqwana met in Athlone this week. Their discussions focused on security at courts. 

The Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster is now working on integrated measures to reinforce safety. In a joint statement, the Ministries agreed that these include more visible policing at court precincts, greater scrutiny of those working in and around court buildings, and the use of technology to reduce risks.  

Authorities are also considering wider use of video links to reduce the transport of remand detainees, which often comes with security challenges. 

Cachalia emphasised that additional policing and technology would form part of the response.  

“Our courts must be sanctuaries of justice, not battlegrounds for criminals and gangs. We are committed to more visible policing and leveraging technology to protect these vital institutions,” said Cachalia. 

Nel noted that gang violence is fuelling daily shootings, which have had a subsequent impact on the safety at court. 

“If our communities are under siege, our justice system cannot stand alone. The Western Cape has seen more than 2000 people shot since January this year alone. Community members live in fear, often silenced by threats of retaliation,” said Nel. 

Judge President Mabindla-Boqwana stressed that courts must remain safe spaces for all, warning that attacks on court precincts strike at “our democracy and the rule of law”. 

“As the judiciary we are united in the struggle to ensure that our courts are places of safety where people can come to exercise their Constitutional rights.”  

Officials confirmed that the JCPS Cluster will monitor progress while engaging with affected communities.