Johannesburg – 

The Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Community Safety has strongly condemned the shocking shooting incident outside the Booysens Magistrate’s Court, which claimed the lives of two people and left three others injured.

The brazen attack occurred at the entrance of the magistrate’s court,  a national key point and legally designated gun-free zone raising serious concerns about security failures at one of the province’s key justice institutions.

In a statement issued following the incident, the Committee said it was deeply disturbed that armed suspects were able to approach the court premises and unleash gunfire, describing the lapse in security as unacceptable.

“These are not minor oversights. In this case, they have cost lives,” the Committee said, calling for the contracted private security company responsible for guarding the court to be held fully accountable for the breach.

The Committee described the attack as a direct assault on the rule of law and public safety, warning that it reflects a growing boldness among criminals who operate with little regard for human life or the authority of state institutions.

The incident has also renewed concerns about the proliferation of illegal firearms in Gauteng. The Committee reiterated its long-standing call for a gun-free Gauteng, supported by stronger intelligence-led policing and stricter firearm control measures.

Adding to the seriousness of the case are allegations that the suspects fled the scene in a white Audi with cloned number plates, a tactic often linked to organised and well-resourced criminal networks. The Committee stressed that such syndicates must be dismantled through rigorous, intelligence-driven law enforcement operations.

The Portfolio Committee has urged the South African Police Service (SAPS) and all relevant law enforcement agencies to act decisively to ensure the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible.

“Those who terrorise communities and undermine the justice system must be shown that the law will prevail,” the Committee said.

Members of the public with any information that may assist investigations have been encouraged to come forward, as community cooperation remains critical in the fight against violent crime.

The Committee extended its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and wished those injured a full and speedy recovery, adding that Gauteng residents deserve to feel safe, particularly in and around institutions of justice.

The Legislature has committed to intensifying oversight to ensure improved safety, accountability and adherence to security standards across the province.