EVATON.- An accused has been sentenced to 10 years of direct imprisonment and declared unfit to possess a firearm by the Sebokeng Magistrate’s Court.

This is for the murder of a 16-year-old boy in Evaton West.

The brutal crime occurred on the evening of February 18 in Extension 11, Evaton West where police responded to a call at approximately 20:00 and discovered the victim lying lifeless near a residential gate.

Evaton police spokesperson Constable Thulisile Msibi explained that an eyewitness revealed what happened on the day as he was speaking with the deceased near a tuckshop when the accused approached and began pushing the victim. The confrontation escalated when the accused drew a black knife and stabbed the boy.

The accused fled the scene to retrieve a panga from a friend and returned moments later. On his way back, he dropped the knife but picked it up again. Shortly after, the teenager was found fatally injured on the ground.

Police swiftly opened a murder case, leading to the accused’s arrest.

Last week, the Sebokeng Magistrate’s Court handed down its verdict. Evaton Police Station Commander Brigadier Sibuyi commended Detective Sergeant Bheki Mkhonza and Sebokeng Prosecutor Alex Mosheu for their relentless efforts in securing the conviction.

“This outcome is a testament to the dedication of Detective Sergeant Mkhonza and Prosecutor Mosheu,” Brigadier Sibuyi stated. “Justice has been served and this sends a strong message that violent crimes will not go unpunished.”