Home / AFRICA / ‘Hammer’ Man arrested for breaking into South Africa’s Constitutional Court

‘Hammer’ Man arrested for breaking into South Africa’s Constitutional Court

A few hours after a major fire in the South African parliament, there was another incident at one of the country’s democratic institutions on Wednesday.

According to the police, a 36-year-old man tried to break in through the windows of the Constitutional Court using a hammer. He ignored a warning shot fired by the police, but was eventually overpowered.

His motive was initially unclear. He is now to stand trial for damage to property.

In the meantime, a 49-year-old man has been brought before a magistrate in connection with the fire in the parliament buildings in Cape Town.

The public prosecutor’s office accuses him of illegally gaining access and setting fire to the building. Explosives were also found in his possession.

According to his lawyer, the man denies all charges. The three-part building complex was severely damaged, but the cause of the fire has yet to be established.

The fire occurred against the backdrop of political tensions between supporters of ex-president Jacob Zuma and his successor Cyril Ramaphosa.

Zuma is facing a commission of inquiry on corruption charges during his 2009-18 term in office. He was sentenced to several months in prison after he failed to comply with several summonses.

About 350 people were killed last year in riots following protests against his imprisonment.

Source: GNA

About admin

Check Also

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has underlined the spiritual guidance of the various religious bodies in the country as the source of his successful 25-year reign on the Golden Stool.

Religious support source of my success — Asantehene claims

The Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, has underlined the spiritual guidance of the various religious …

The planning committee for Otumfuo's 25th anniversary event has advised attendees to "avoid wearing party colours during the entire event." This request is to ensure that all attendees can enjoy the celebration without any distractions or potential conflicts.

Otumfuo’s 25th Anniversary events: ‘Desist from wearing party colours’ – Planning Committee

The planning committee for Otumfuo’s 25th anniversary event has advised attendees to “avoid wearing party …