25-YEAR SENTENCE FOR BRUTAL MURDER FOLLOWING JEALOUSY-FUELED ALTERCATION

08 July 2025

25-YEAR SENTENCE FOR BRUTAL MURDER FOLLOWING JEALOUSY-FUELED ALTERCATION

Upington, Northern Cape – The Upington Regional Court has convicted and sentenced 29-year-old Johannes Gabaya from Augrabies to 25 years of direct imprisonment for the premeditated murder of Mathlole Bolokang. The murder occurred on 10 December 2023, just 11 days before the victim would have celebrated his 25th birthday.
The incident stemmed from a violent altercation between the two men, reportedly triggered by Gabaya’s accusations that Bolokang was romantically involved with his girlfriend. The argument escalated when Gabaya slapped the victim, who responded by striking him on the head with a mug, causing an open wound.
Gabaya briefly left the scene, only to return armed with a knife and a clear intention to retaliate. When Bolokang attempted to flee, Gabaya chased him, stabbed him once to disable him, and then pinned him to the ground before delivering multiple fatal stab wounds.

The case was prosecuted by Regional Court Prosecutor Friedle Du Plessis, who described the attack as "brutal and merciless", arguing that it showed a complete disregard for the sanctity of human life. Du Plessis urged the court to impose the minimum prescribed sentence of life imprisonment, citing the lack of any substantial or compelling circumstances to justify leniency.

While the court found Gabaya guilty of murder with premeditated intent, it imposed a sentence of 25 years’ direct imprisonment instead of life imprisonment.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomes the conviction and sentence and commends the dedicated work of the prosecution team. The NPA remains steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that perpetrators of violent crimes are arrested, prosecuted, and held fully accountable.

“The value of human life cannot be overstated. We will continue to diligently pursue justice in these cases to ensure accountability and deter future acts of violence,” said Mojalefa Senokoatsane, NPA Regional Spokesperson.

Issued by:

Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson – Northern Cape Division
MSenokoatsane@npa.gov.za
073 423 3539