Media Statement

Minister Kubayi confirms the fire at the Himeville Magistrates Court

24 May 2026

The Minister of the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, Ms. Mmamoloko Kubayi, confirms that a fire broke out at the Himeville Magistrates Court, within the Harry Gwala District Municipality in Kwa- Zulu Natal, on Saturday, 23 May 2026.

Preliminary information indicates that the fire originated in the Magistrate's office after a contractor working on site started a fire in the office fireplace, which spread throughout the court building. Emergency services were called to the scene, and efforts were made to contain the fire. No injuries and fatalities have been reported.

The Department can further confirm that the cash hall and the filing room containing charge sheets and related court records remain unaffected, while the Magistrate’s office, the offices of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), and the courtroom sustained severe damage.

The Department of Justice and Constitutional Development and the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Real Estate Management Services (DPWI), REMS are working together to identify alternative state-owned properties that can accommodate the magistrates' court as an interim measure.

Further communication will be issued in due course regarding provisional operational arrangements that will ensure the continuation of essential judicial services to the affected community.

Audio Clip: Palesa Rammitlwa, Spokesperson to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development, on Minister Kubayi confirming the fire at the Himeville Magistrates' Court.

Media enquiries: Ms Palesa Rammitlwa, Spokesperson to the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development - 064 933 3628.

ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA