Himeville: The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development has confirmed that a fire broke out at the Himeville Magistrate's Court in the Harry Gwala District Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal.
According to South African Government News Agency, the fire erupted over the weekend, severely damaging several sections of the court. Preliminary information indicates that the fire originated in the Magistrate's office. It began after a contractor working on site started a fire in the office fireplace, which then spread throughout the court building. Emergency services were dispatched to the scene, and efforts were made to contain the blaze. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities have been reported.
The department's statement further revealed that while the cash hall and the filing room containing charge sheets and related court records remain unaffected, the Magistrate's office, the offices of the National Prosecuting Authority, and the courtroom sustained significant damage.
In response to the incident, the department is collaborating with the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure's Real Estate Management Services to identify alternative State-owned properties that can accommodate the Magistrate's Court as an interim measure. Further communication will be issued soon regarding provisional operational arrangements to ensure the continuation of essential judicial services to the affected community.