By REGINALD KANYANE
14 August 2026 – Two men were sentenced to a combined 36 years imprisonment by the Kimberley Regional Court for attempted murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances. The accused, Ronaldo Louw (24) and Siyabulela Buffel (24) were convicted on 29 July 2026 and sentenced on 12 August 2026.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Warrant Officer Molefi Shemane said on the count of attempted murder, each accused was sentenced to 12 years imprisonment, while they received a sentence of eight years imprisonment for robbery with aggravating circumstances.
“Both sentences will run concurrently. The incident occurred on 17 August 2024, when a woman (23) accompanied by her mother and boyfriend, was travelling home after the taxi in which they were travelling dropped them off in Phomolong, instead of taking them to Phutanang.
“While walking home between Retswelele and Phomolong, the trio was confronted by six unknown men who robbed them of their personal belongings, including money and cellular phones,” he said.
Shemane further said during the robbery, the victim’s boyfriend was stabbed and was subsequently admitted to hospital for medical treatment and later discharged. He added that as the investigation progressed, the victim positively identified and pointed out two of the six suspects.
“The two suspects were subsequently arrested and charged with attempted murder and robbery with aggravating circumstances. They remained in custody until the finalisation of the matter in court on 12 August 2026,” said Shemane.
Meanwhile, the Frances Baard District Police Commissioner, Major General Charlotte Makgari, commended the investigating officer, Detective Sergeant Khalala Gilbert Seotsa of the Kagisho Detective Unit for his dedication, commitment and diligence, which resulted in the successful investigation and conviction of the two offenders.
Makgati reiterated that the SAPS remains committed to ensuring that violent offenders are brought to justice and removed from society to safeguard communities.
“The police will continue to intensify efforts to prevent crime, protect vulnerable members of society and ensure that cases involving women and children are investigated effectively and efficiently.
“These efforts will continue beyond Women’s Month as part of our ongoing commitment to creating safer communities,” she said.
The Guardian 