It is feared more cases could come to an abrupt halt in the Port Elizabeth Magistrate’s Court after a standoff between a magistrate and an interpreter.

Fifteen cash-in-transit suspects were released this week after the magistrate hearing their case refused to continue without an interpreter who was late for work.

The magistrate cancelled the day’s proceedings and the suspects were released because he had not issued a warrant for detention.

Cash-in-transit company SBV’s Blackie Swart said they were amazed to see the suspects set free.

Swart said they would approach the chief justice if need be.

Meanwhile, court interpreters are refusing to work with Magistrate Maketho Pheko, putting other cases in jeopardy.