Judicial officers face rising threats to safety

Magistrates are increasingly targeted by threats and violence, compromising their safety, Calls for improved security measures are growing as magistrates express fears for their lives

- THAMI MAGUBANE

THE threats and intimidation directed at judicial officers are undermining the justice system and putting the lives of magistrates at risk. This is the view of organisations representing judges after three magistrates were threatened by suspects for doing their job.

The magistrates described the situation as dire, calling for protection in and out of the courtroom as they handle 95% of the legal court work.

The nature of the threats faced by magistrates includes a suspect gesturing to slit the throat of a magistrate, a magistrate being attacked inside the courtroom and shootings outside courts.

A report tabled before the select committee on Justice and Constitutional Development revealed that there has been an increase in reported attacks and threats to the judiciary.

It said common threats identified include premeditated assassinations, violent attacks, kidnapping, anonymous calls and messages, loitering in courts with intent to harm, stalking, death threats, disruption of court proceedings and physical assault.

Mbekezeli Benjamin of Judges Matter said they have urged the Department of Justice to intervene and improve the security of magistrates or the accused persons will never face justice.