A 29-year-old man has been sentenced to seven years’ direct imprisonment for attempted murder after stabbing a young man at a tavern in Lephalale. Ranko Makgae was convicted in the Lephalale Regional Court in the Waterberg District on Monday, 30 March.
The court heard that the incident happened at a tavern in Vila Nora on Sunday, 7 July 2025. The victim, 21, and the accused were both at the venue. According to evidence presented in court, the victim accidentally bumped into Makgae while walking to the counter. Makgae insulted him. As the victim walked away, Makgae followed him from behind and stabbed him several times with a sharp object.
Police and emergency medical services were called to the scene. The victim was treated for his injuries. A case of attempted murder was opened at Vila Nora police station. Makgae was later arrested following an investigation. He first appeared in the Phalala Magistrate’s Court, where he was granted bail.
The matter was later transferred to the Lephalale Regional Court. Detective Warrant Officer Tebele Mafokoane led the investigation that resulted in the conviction. Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the sentence shows that violent crime will not be tolerated.
“The police remain committed to ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are brought to book,” said Ledwaba.
Makgae was sentenced to seven years’ direct imprisonment.
