NGO Judges Matter has spoken out about the attack on the Constitutional Court (ConCourt) after a suspect has been arrested. The building’s front windows were struck with a hammer on Wednesday, 5 January.
Judges Matter concerned that so much damage can be done
One of the main concerns the NGO has is the fact that one person could cause such “extensive damage” by hand.
“[We] remain concerned that a person can, by hand, cause such extensive damage to a National Key Point. We shudder to think what could have happened had he had a more powerful weapon.”
They further called on law enforcement to take “urgent measures” in order to protect the institutions of South Africa’s democracy.
“We call on law enforcement authorities to act swiftly to investigate, arrest and prosecute those responsible for this damage and to take urgent measures to protect critical institutions of our democracy.”
Constitutional Court. 😬 pic.twitter.com/gjqlyTK2jm
— 🍃mama canna 🍃 (@yeahjustumi) January 5, 2022
No connection to the Parliament fire
A 36-year-old suspect has been taken into custody dan is expected to appear in court soon. He is charged with malicious damage to property.
“Judges Matter is relieved that the suspect responsible for this attack has been arrested and we commend the SA Police Service for its swift action.”
However, while a suspect is caught, the reason for the violent act is still unclear. And as the attack only comes a few days after the devastating fire at Parliament, a few eyebrows are raised.
However, no clear link has been made between the attack on two of South Africa’s National Key Points.
