A shooting at Booysens Magistrates’ Court leaves two people dead and three others injured as authorities respond. Picture Credit: IOL
By Aisha Zardad
Johannesburg – A shooting incident outside the Booysens Magistrates’ Court in Johannesburg on Tuesday, 20 January 2026, left at least two people dead and three others wounded, authorities said, as law enforcement responded to the unfolding situation.
The Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Development confirmed the shooting in a media statement, saying it had learned of the serious incident with grave concern and that it was “still active” as police and emergency services attended to the scene. At least five people were shot, with two fatalities reported, although law enforcement had not released detailed information about the suspects or motive at the time of reporting.
Deputy Minister Andries Nel was expected to visit the crime scene to assess developments, while the ministry said it was awaiting further details from law enforcement and court management.
Emergency responders and police cordoned off the court precinct as they tended to the injured and secured the area, though circumstances surrounding the shooting had not yet been disclosed publicly. Earlier reports suggested that among those wounded were a lawyer and several women, though this had not been formally confirmed by official sources at the time of initial updates.
In condemning the violence, the justice ministry said it would work with relevant security and law enforcement authorities “to ensure that all necessary measures are implemented to safeguard court users and personnel.”
The incident has raised renewed attention on security at court buildings nationwide, with concerns growing about violence in and around justice precincts. Officials emphasised that updates would be provided as investigations proceed and more verified information becomes available.
