The Lephalale Regional Court in the Waterberg District has sentenced 29-year-old Ranko Makgae to seven years of direct imprisonment for attempted murder.
The incident occurred on Sunday, 7 June 2024, at a tavern in Vila Nora. The court heard that a 21-year-old victim and the accused were at the establishment when the victim accidentally bumped into Makgae while approaching the counter. The accused reportedly insulted the victim, who then walked away.
According to court proceedings, Makgae then approached the victim from behind and stabbed him multiple times with a sharp object.
Police and emergency medical personnel responded to the scene. A case of attempted murder was registered at Vila Nora SAPS for investigation, leading to the suspect’s arrest.
Makgae initially appeared before the Phalala Magistrate’s Court, where he was granted bail. The matter was later transferred to the Lephalale Regional Court, where he was convicted of the attempted murder charge.
Sentencing was handed down on Monday, 30 March 2026.