Durban — The Durban Central police are investigating charges of attempted murder after two men from Wentworth were shot and wounded outside the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday. A court official was also hit by a stray bullet.
According to police sources, the shooting could be linked to ongoing gang violence plaguing the community of Wentworth.
Several members of the Cartel gang who are in a bloody battle with the Hollywood gang were appearing in court shortly before the shooting took place.
It is alleged that Micaele Briat, 21, and Alazair Bernon, 21, were walking towards the court when men in an alleged BMW X5 opened fire toward them. They ran inside the court.
A court official, Mandla Mthembu, 34, was on the first floor of the building when he was hit on his left thigh by a stray bullet.
In what appears to be a drug gang-related shooting, it is alleged that Briat, who was shot in his left leg, was accompanying Bernon who had come for his conviction.
Bernon was shot twice on his left arm above the elbow.
Police spokesperson Constable Thenjiswa Ngcobo said the police were called to the scene around 10am.
“They both (Briat and Bernon) sustained injuries and they were rushed to hospital. “It was also discovered that a court official was hit by a stray bullet on the thigh,” said Ngcobo.
She said the motive for the attack was unknown.
A witness, who refused to be named for fear for his life, said he was walking towards the court entrance when he saw one of three men drawing a firearm and began shooting.
“I was following the guys, just like everyone was making their way to court. They scattered in three ways and they drew their guns. While everyone took cover as they began to shoot, I just froze behind the one in front of me. I was in shock. I could not move.
“I was scared to run. I knew if I ran forward I could be shot at. I thought of running backwards but then I realised one of them was left inside the car. So I chose to just stand still. They were shooting everywhere. I thought I might get shot or be injured,” he said.
The victims ran into the court building and passed the security turnstiles. A victim collapsed by the information desk. Bloodstains could be seen in the foyer.
Police had to close off the court building for investigations. People were prevented from entering or leaving the building.
Only the victims’ relatives were allowed into the court building.
Onlookers panicked and hid until the police arrived.
People on the ground and first floor were rushed outside the court, while others bundled into the lifts to get out.
Daily News