By REGINALD KANYANE
20 March 2025- Two men aged 24 and 55, were sentenced to a combined 22 years by the Sutherland Regional Court for murder and attempted murder. On 4 May 2024, the victim Eden Visagie (20), was visiting his girlfriend, at her place of residence at Skema.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Sergeant Merapelo Pilane said Visagie was involved in an argument with his girlfriend’s father, and decided to leave the premises. Pilane said a physical fight ensued in the street after the father followed and attacked the victim.
“During the fight, the suspect, Jandre Hanekom, joined in and stabbed the deceased several times with a knife on his upper body, and left him on the scene. The victim was transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.
“The suspect was arrested later the same day and charged for murder. He made several court appearances while in custody. Hanekom was found guilty as charged and sentenced to 15 years direct imprisonment,” he said.
Pilane further said in an unrelated matter, Hendrik Prins (55), was convicted and sentenced to 7 years imprisonment for attempted murder. He added that on 3 May 2024, Eben Pieterse was enjoying alcoholic beverages with a group of friends at a residence in Hopland, Sutherland.
“The suspect, Prins, joined the group of friends, an argument broke out between them. He stabbed the victim on the head and on the upper body and fled the scene.
“The victim was rushed to a local hospital for medical treatment. The suspect was later arrested and charged for attempted murder. He was declared unfit to possess a firearm,” said Serapelo.
Meanwhile, the Namakwa District Police Commissioner, Brigadier Skalk Andrews, praised the outstanding investigation, by Sergeant Barroleen Motha, for solving both cases in such a short space of time and ensuring that the perpetrators are handed a suitable punishment. Andrews said members of the public are encouraged to report any criminal activities through the MySAPS App or use the 08600 10111 Crime Stop number.
The Guardian 