Boy, 9, struck with beer bottle, offender handed suspended sentence

A HARROWING incident in Modderrivier has culminated in a three-year suspended prison sentence for 58-year-old Martiens Modukaneng, who was found guilty of assaulting a nine-year-old boy.

On March 7, 2024, Modukaneng arrived at the home of the victim’s mother, where he attempted to assault her with a beer bottle. The attack took a tragic turn when the bottle missed its intended target and struck the young boy, causing injuries to his head, face, and ear.

Following the incident, the boy was rushed to hospital for a medical examination, where the severity of his injuries was confirmed. His mother reported the matter to the police, leading to Modukaneng’s arrest on March 12, 2024.

The local regional court delivered its verdict on November 19, 2025, convicting Modukaneng of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH).

Although he received a three-year prison sentence, it was wholly suspended for five years – a decision that has raised concerns among community members about the adequacy of consequences for violent acts against children.

As the province observes 16 Days of Activism for No Violence Against Women and Children, the case highlights the ongoing challenges in protecting children. The Frances Baard district commissioner, Major-General Charlotte Makgari, praised Detective Constable Nomathamsanqa Molusi of the Kimberley SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Unit for her diligence in securing the conviction and advocating for justice for the young victim.

The case has reignited calls for harsher penalties for offenders, with activists and community leaders urging stronger accountability for violence against children and other vulnerable groups.