Roodepan teen stabbed after public urination dispute
A 26-year-old man was sentenced to six years in prison for stabbing a 15-year-old boy behind the ear with an okapi knife after the boy reprimanded him for urinating against a fence.
Image: File / NPA
The South African Police Service (SAPS) management in the Northern Cape has welcomed the conviction and sentencing of Ronald Steenkamp, 26, for assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
For this assault, Steenkamp was sentenced to six years of direct imprisonment by the Galeshewe Magistrate's Court.
The incident occurred on March 26 2023, when Steenkamp was seen urinating against a fence in Chris Hani Park, Galeshewe. A 15-year-old boy, who witnessed the incident from his home, reprimanded Steenkamp for his behaviour. Later that day, Steenkamp encountered the teenager and stabbed him behind the ear with an okapi knife.
The victim, accompanied by his parents, reported the incident to the police, leading to Steenkamp's arrest. The case was transferred to the Galeshewe Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences (FCS) Unit for further investigation.
The thorough investigation led by Detective Warrant Officer Lesego Oliphant of the Galeshewe FCS Unit was instrumental in securing the conviction. SAPS Management commended Oliphant's work, stating that it helped bring closure to the victim and his family.
The Northern Cape SAPS remains committed to combating crimes against women and children, and this sentence serves as a testament to their dedication to justice. Steenkamp's conviction and sentencing bring some measure of relief to the victim and his family, and serve as a warning to those who would commit similar crimes.