Targeting of legal professionals is an attack on the rule of law

Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA) has expressed concern following the fatal shooting of a legal practitioner Chinette Gallichan in the Johannesburg CBD, noting the growing risks faced by individuals operating within South Africa’s criminal justice system. 

This incident reflects a broader and deeply concerning pattern in which legal professionals, investigators, prosecutors and witnesses are increasingly exposed to intimidation and violence. In organised crime environments, such violence is not incidental. It is used to exert pressure on the system, to influence outcomes, and to shield criminal networks from accountability. 

International analysis, including findings from the Global Organized Crime Index published by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, highlights that the targeting of justice system actors is a defining feature of highly criminalised environments. It further underscores the importance of strengthening protection mechanisms and institutional resilience as a priority response. 

South Africa has important foundations in place, including an effective formal witness protection system. However, the current threat environment suggests that protection measures may need to evolve to address a wider range of individuals operating within the system, particularly those exposed through their professional roles. 

The issue of impunity remains central. Where there is a perception that individuals can act without consequence, the risk of targeted violence increases and the integrity of the system is undermined. 

“This is not just another violent incident. When officers of the court are targeted, it has implications for the integrity of the rule of law. If those who operate within the justice system are not able to do so safely, the system itself is weakened,” said Anton du Plessis. 

This is ultimately a matter that requires continued leadership from the state. Strengthening coordination, protection measures and prioritisation of cases involving justice system actors will be important in reinforcing accountability and restoring deterrence. 

BACSA emphasised that business and civil society can play a constructive role in supporting these efforts, particularly in strengthening system capability and coordination, but that such support must reinforce - and not replace - the role of the state. 

Du Plessis added: “South Africa has the institutional framework and capability required to respond to these challenges. The priority now is to ensure that these are aligned and applied effectively, so that the system delivers consistent outcomes and maintains public confidence.” 

Protecting those who uphold the law is fundamental to maintaining the rule of law and the stability of South Africa’s democratic and economic environment. 

ADVOCATE ANTON DU PLESSIS

Chief Executive Officer, Business Against Crime South Africa (BACSA)