The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DJCOD) has condemned acts of vandalism during a protest that caused extensive damage to the Bishop Lavis Magistrate Court.
COURTESY: Sub-council chairperson, Angus McKenzieProtestors on Saturday vandalised the court, “set parts of
it on fire and stole essential court equipment”. It is alleged that the
incident occurred after an alleged gangster was killed by the Anti-Gang Unit in
Kalksteenfontein.
“According to reports, Bishop Lavis SAPS members received a
complaint of a fire at the mentioned address.
On arrival, they found the front entrance to the building burning. The
two security guards on duty informed them that an angry mob broke down the
front gate. They entered the premises
and damaged the security gate and a few windows in front of the court
building,” said FC van Wyk, Western Cape police spokesperson.
“The two security guards fled and went to go hide
themselves, and contacted the police. When SAPS arrived on the scene, the crowd
fled the scene. Fire and Rescue was contacted and extinguished the fires. Cases
of public violence and attacks on police were also registered for
investigation. All these cases are still under investigation, with no arrests
as yet,’’ he added.
The DJCOD said it has put measures in place so that court
proceedings resume.
“We are working closely with the South African Police
Service (SAPS) to secure the premises and prevent further damage. Additional security measures have been
implemented, including the deployment of extra security guards and a 24-hour
police presence to safeguard the building,’’ it said in a statement.
“The department can confirm that systems are being put in
place to ensure the continuation of court operations. Measures have already
been initiated to facilitate the postponement of cases, with proceedings expected
to resume [on Monday],’’ it added.
The department said repairs will be made to the court.
“The department is prioritising emergency repairs to the
damaged infrastructure, including restoring water supply and other essential
services, to ensure that the court remains accessible and operational.
“We condemn any acts of vandalism and urge the community to
cooperate with law enforcement authorities as investigations into the incident
continue,” it concluded
COURTESY: Sub-council chairperson, Angus McKenzieThe South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) echoed
the department’s sentiments.
‘’No grievance justifies an attack on the institutions that
are vital for promoting and protecting of the rights of citizens and for
providing necessary services. We encourage community members to seek
constructive communication with local authorities to express their concerns and
work together towards solutions that benefit everyone.’’
The SAHRC further raised concerns about potential delays
and/or postponements in court proceedings resulting from this incident.
‘’Sudden disruptions can negatively affect the rights of
community members who rely on the court for various services. Despite the
reported grievances, the Commission urges law enforcement agencies to enhance
their efforts in maintaining law and order and to hold accountable those
responsible for this incident while ensuring that court services remain
accessible to all who need its services.’’
Done by: Mitchum George
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