49 cell phones have been confiscated from police officers who took photos of Oscar Pistorius who was arrested in February for shooting his girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp dead in his house in South Africa.

Nathi Mthethwa, South Africa's police minister, said the 49 phones were confiscated at Boschkop police station in Pretoria after police officers took photos from their phones of the Olympic athlete being transferred from the court and the police station.

Mthethwa made the revelation of the confiscation in a response to Parliament earlier this week, telling them "This action was necessary after it came to light that photos were taken of a high profile individual who had been arrested."

The police minister told AP that he feared that reporters had tried to purchase photos from the police officers which could be key evidence,  but so far there are no reports of any evidence photos being sold.

Pistorius was granted bail on Feb. 22, four days after Steenkamp's death.

Chief Magistrate Desmond Nair made a decision after a two-hour explanation of his ruling. Nair told the court he had "come to the conclusion that the accused has made a case to be granted bail." There was a cry of "Yes" from Pistorius' family members and supporters in the public gallery when the court was adjourned.

Pistorius bail was set at 1 million rand ($113,000), with $11,300 in cash and proof that the rest is available. Pistorius was ordered to hand over his passports and also turn in any other firearms that he owns. He will not be allowed to leave the district of Pretoria without the permission of his probation officer, Nair said.

The magistrate also ruled that he could not return to his home, where the killing of Steenkamp took place.

The double-amputee Olympian's next court appearance was set for June 4.

Tags: Oscar Pistorius