Fatal shooting during escape attempt at Melmoth Magistrate’s Court

An accused was shot dead after attempting to escape police custody along with two others at the Melmoth Magistrate’s Court in KwaZulu-Natal on Monday. 

KZN police spokesperson Captain Ntathu Ndlovu said Melmoth police are investigating an inquest, a case of escaping from lawful custody, attempted murder, and assault GBH (grievous bodily harm) following an incident that happened at the Melmoth Magistrate’s Court when three suspects allegedly attempted an escape.

“Reports indicate 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, 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. “Investigations into this case are 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 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 on 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 are conducting a thorough investigation, and a full report is expected soon. 

“The ministry has also initiated its own internal review of court security measures,” Manase said. 

He said Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has 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