By: Buhle Mbhele
The minister of justice and constitutional development, Mmamoloko Kubayi, has strongly condemned the fatal shooting of a lawyer in the Johannesburg CBD.
According to reports, the victim was shot and killed near the offices of the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) on Tuesday. Emergency services were called to the scene, where she was declared dead.
The deceased was a legal practitioner attached to Sibanye-Stillwater’s legal team. It is understood that she had been involved in a labour-related matter on behalf of the company at the time of the incident.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Terrence Manase, said preliminary information suggests the victim may have been targeted while carrying out her professional duties.
“The minister has expressed her outrage at this senseless act of violence and has called on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly in bringing those responsible to justice,” Manase said.
He added that attacks on officers of the court undermine the rule of law and threaten the functioning of South Africa’s justice system. The minister has urged anyone with information to come forward and assist police with their investigation.
Police have opened a case of murder and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the shooting. No arrests have been made at this stage.
The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has extended its condolences to the victim’s family, colleagues and the broader legal fraternity, describing the incident as a stark reminder of the safety risks faced by legal professionals in the line of duty.
