SPRINGBOK – A 31-year-old man has been sentenced to 10 years’ imprisonment after stabbing a 16-year-old boy during a confrontation in Springbok.

The Springbok Regional Court sentenced the Vaalwater Child Stabber Johndro Gous, also known as “Johny Be Good”, to 10 years in prison, with two years suspended for five years on condition that he is not convicted of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm or any assault during the suspension period.

The court also declared Gous unfit to work with children in terms of Section 120 of the Child Care Act 38 of 2005 and unfit to possess a firearm in terms of Section 103 of the Firearms Control Act 60 of 2000.

The conviction stems from an incident on 28 March, when Gous allegedly confronted the teenager in Vaalwater, Springbok, following a verbal altercation.

Gous allegedly confronted the teenager

During the confrontation, Gous stabbed the boy in the face and arm with a knife.

The teenager sustained serious injuries and required stitches both inside and outside his mouth, as well as on his arm.

The Namakwa District SAPS commended Detective Constable Agenes Vena for her thorough investigation, which contributed to the compilation of a strong case docket that was successfully presented in court by the prosecution.

The Namakwa District Manager welcomed the sentence and said violence, particularly against children, would not be tolerated.

“This sentence sends a clear message that individuals who resort to violence and physically harm others, especially children, will be held accountable and face the full might of the law,” the manager said.

“Violence has no place in our communities, and SAPS will continue working diligently to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.”

Namakwa District SAPS has urged communities to reject violence and work with police to create safer communities where children and other vulnerable people are protected from harm.

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