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Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services today requested more information on the break-in that led to the theft of several computers from the Office of the Chief Justice (OCJ).

Committee members wanted the latest on the matter as this raised serious security concerns. Members of Parliament further wanted to know what measures has been taken regarding the safety of judges as the computers contained the personal information of judges.

The Committee heard that discussions are under way to decide on whether the OCJ should in future fall within the national key points environment. These matters were raised during a presentation by the OCJ on its annual performance plan and budget. It was the first opportunity for the Committee to interact with the OCJ since the incident in March this year.

The OCJ had to also field questions on whether the incident could have been an “inside job”, whether security has been increased and what the impact of this was on the already constrained budget of the OCJ.

The Committee heard that the number of security guards has since been increased to ensure more regular patrols – especially at vulnerable areas. Also, exterior lights have been improved, the fencing will be replaced and more regular patrolling by the South African Police Service will now take place. The investigation is still ongoing.

The Committee raised a serious concern that the National Treasury has not provided funding for personnel and the running costs of the almost completed Mpumalanga High Court.
The OCJ further noted the concern of the Committee regarding this matter and will keep the Committee updated on it.

Acting Committee Chairperson, Ms Chana Pilane-Majake, said: “The Committee continues to be interested to ensure that the OCJ is provided with the necessary support to be able to perform optimally.”

Issued by Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Acting Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services, Ms Chana Pilane-Majake