A PLAN to make a daring escape from custody during a court appearance went awry for an accused person who was attending a sitting at the Melmoth Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
He attempted to grab the gun of a court orderly while in a courtroom and his two accomplices who were appearing alongside him assaulted the policeman.
Another policeman who was present shot and killed the accused who was trying to dispossess the orderly of his firearm.
KZN police spokesperson Captain Ntathu Ndlovu said Melmoth police were investigating an inquest, which relates to a case of escaping from lawful custody, attempted murder, and assault GBH (grievous bodily harm), following an incident that occurred at the Melmoth Magistrate’s Court when three suspects allegedly attempted an escape.
“Reports indicate that the three suspects, aged between 22 and 26 years, were in court when one of the suspects allegedly attacked and attempted to disarm a police officer, and the other two suspects allegedly started to beat the officer,” Ndlovu said.
“One suspect was fatally shot, and the other two suspects have been re-arrested.”
Ndlovu said no other fatality was reported and that investigations were ongoing.
Reacting to the incident, the Justice and Constitutional Development Ministry commended the prompt response but expressed concern over the incident.
The ministry said preliminary reports indicated that an accused person in custody allegedly gained access to a court orderly’s firearm. However, in a quick response, a second court orderly discharged his service firearm, killing the accused. The accused was declared dead at the scene.
“While the full details of the incident, including the identity of the deceased and the exact sequence of events, are still under investigation, the ministry is encouraged by the professionalism displayed by court officials in a high-pressure situation,” ministry spokesperson Terrence Manase said.
“Their actions undoubtedly prevented a potentially greater tragedy.”
Manase said that despite the distressing incident, court operations at Melmoth were not disrupted, and the regional court continued to serve the public as scheduled.
“This reflects the resilience and commitment of the justice system and its officials to uphold the rule of law.”
Manase said the police were conducting a thorough investigation, and a full report was expected soon.
“The ministry has also initiated its own internal review of court security measures,” Manase said.
He said Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi had requested an urgent briefing and stressed the critical need to immediately enhance security measures within all court premises.
“The department is working closely with law enforcement to ensure enhanced safety measures are urgently implemented to safeguard all court users,” Manase said.
thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za
DAILY NEWS
