BLOEMFONTEIN COURT SENTENCES ATTACKER TO 20 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER
13 FEBRUARY 2026
BLOEMFONTEIN COURT SENTENCES ATTACKER TO 20 YEARS’ IMPRISONMENT FOR ATTEMPTED MURDER
Bloemfontein, Free State – The Bloemfontein Regional Court has sentenced 24-year-old Malgas Khesane to 20 years’ direct imprisonment following his conviction on one count of attempted murder. On the evening of 24 September 2023, the female victim was returning home from a local drinking establishment in Bloemspruit, Bloemfontein, when the accused emerged from nearby bushes, forcibly grabbed her and threw her to the ground. He then repeatedly stabbed her with a knife. The victim’s screams attracted the attention of nearby residents, who rushed to her assistance, while the accused fled the scene. Although the victim and the accused were not in a relationship, she knew him from the neighbourhood. She was able to positively identify him to the police, which led to his arrest and successful prosecution. The attack left her with life-threatening injuries.
During sentencing proceedings, the victim testified about the lasting physical scars and emotional trauma she continues to endure as a result of the attack. Despite pleading not guilty, the accused was convicted of attempted murder on 13 February 2026.
In aggravation of sentence, Regional Court Prosecutor Amore Coetzee informed the court that the accused has previous convictions for violent offences. The prosecution emphasised the seriousness of the offence and the need for the court to impose a sentence that reflects society’s denunciation of such brutality. In handing down a sentence, the court described the accused’s conduct as inhumane and noted that he poses a serious threat to the safety of the community.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), working in close collaboration with its Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (JCPS) Cluster partners, particularly the South African Police Service (SAPS), remains steadfast in its commitment to vigorously prosecute cases of violent crime. Such sentences send an unequivocal message that perpetrators of gender-based violence will be held accountable and that the justice system will act decisively to protect victims and uphold the sanctity of human life.
Issued by:
Mojalefa Senokoatsane
NPA Regional Spokesperson – Free State Division
073 423 3539