A shocking incident unfolded on the morning of Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court in Cape Town, where a key witness scheduled to testify was shot and killed inside the court premises.
The shooting occurred on the third floor of the courthouse, specifically in the hallway outside Courtroom D. According to an eyewitness who was present at the time, the atmosphere was tense and chaotic when the gunfire erupted.
“We were all waiting to enter Court D when the incident happened,” said the woman, who is from Philippi. “Two men approached, and one of them suddenly opened fire. The victim collapsed on the spot and died right there.”
Immediately following the shooting, all court activities were suspended. Security personnel evacuated the building, and court operations for the day were postponed. The incident has raised serious concerns about how the perpetrators managed to enter the heavily guarded premises with a firearm.
“It was terrifying. You don’t expect to hear gunshots in a court building. Everyone is supposed to be searched before entering—so how did the weapon get in?” the woman questioned.
Police spokesperson Sergeant Wesley Twigg confirmed the fatal shooting and said the matter is under active investigation.
“Wynberg police have registered a murder case following a shooting incident at the court in Church Road, Wynberg, on Tuesday,” said Twigg. “The victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was declared deceased on the scene by medical personnel.”
He added that the motive behind the attack is still unknown, and the suspects involved are currently at large. Authorities are following several leads and are urging the public to assist in the investigation.
“Anyone with information about the shooting is requested to contact CrimeStop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPS mobile application to report anonymously,” Twigg stated.
Witnesses say that the shooters fled the scene in a white Toyota Quantum shortly after the incident. The police have not yet confirmed the vehicle’s registration or its possible link to organized crime or witness intimidation.
The brazen nature of the attack has left many shaken and questioning the safety and security protocols within South African courts. With the victim allegedly being a witness in an ongoing case, there is rising concern that this may have been a deliberate act to silence testimony.
This incident follows a growing trend of violence within or near judicial facilities, sparking debates about courtroom safety, the protection of witnesses, and the need for more stringent security measures.
The court remains closed temporarily while forensic teams continue their investigation. Updates will follow as the police uncover more details surrounding the shocking murder that has sent ripples through the Wynberg community and beyond.