Key Points
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A deadly shooting at Wynberg Magistrate’s Court in Cape Town has raised serious concerns about court security.
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The malfunctioning metal detector at the court has been identified as a contributing factor in the incident.
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The Ministry of Justice is considering off-site testimony for witnesses in high-risk cases to improve safety.
A deadly shooting at Wynberg Magistrate’s Court in Cape Town has raised serious concerns about security at court buildings.
The Ministry of Justice is now considering measures, such as off-site testimony, to protect those involved in court proceedings.
Security issues revealed after shooting
The incident occurred on Tuesday, April 8, 2025, when 49-year-old Dingalomoyo Chintso was shot and killed inside the court building.
Reports indicate that Chintso was initially suspected to be a state witness, though later it was revealed that he was actually a murder suspect.
According to the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, the metal detector at the court had not been functioning, and no report had been made about the issue.
Minister of Justice Mmamoloko Kubayi confirmed that the security breach, including the failure of the metal detector, is being investigated.
“What we are trying to understand is why the metal detector did not work, and why no report was made,” she said.
“We must prevent this from happening again.”
Plans for off-site testimony and security improvements
Kubayi discussed the possibility of allowing witnesses to testify off-site, particularly in high-risk cases. “We have a high level of gang-related cases at Wynberg.
The concern is not just about witnesses, but also the safety of magistrates and everyone in the courtroom,” she explained.
“We want to find ways to protect people and prevent more violence.”
Kubayi emphasized that the authorities would engage with the judiciary to explore off-site testimony as a safer option for witnesses.
Concerns about safety and infrastructure
The deadly shooting has also brought attention to the overall safety and security of judicial officers, staff, and the public.
Alison Tilley from Judges Matter expressed her concern, highlighting the need for improved infrastructure and security.
“There are many issues with court buildings, including security flaws and poor maintenance,” she said.
“The situation has worsened due to malfunctioning metal detectors that allowed a gun to be smuggled in.”
A study conducted by the Democratic Governance and Rights Unit (DGRU) revealed that nearly 23% of magistrates reported being personally threatened or harmed in connection with their work, particularly in cases involving gangs. This further underscores the need for better security measures.
Calls for urgent review of security protocols
Rafique Foflonker, spokesperson for the Provincial Community Police Board, called for an urgent review of security protocols at all court facilities.
“We must ensure the safety of all court users—staff, legal practitioners, witnesses, and the public. We cannot allow violence to spread into our courts,” he said.
He also called for regular testing of metal detectors, access control systems, and personnel to improve vigilance at court buildings.
Crime expert Calvin Rafadi echoed these concerns, stressing the need for better security at court entrances.
“Our courts are increasingly at risk from criminals who do not respect the law,” he said. “The private security systems at court entrances must be reviewed, and metal detectors should be controlled more effectively.”
