Repeat offender convicted in Victoria-West court
A 62-year-old man from Loxton in the Northern Cape has been sentenced to 12 years behind bars after being found guilty of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Alic Booysen, who was on parole at the time of the offence, appeared before the Victoria-West Regional Court on Thursday, 19 March 2026, where the harsh sentence was handed down.
The court heard that Booysen had a previous conviction for a similar violent crime, making this his second offence of the same nature. In addition to the lengthy prison sentence, the presiding officer declared Booysen unfit to possess a firearm.
The incident took place on 8 December 2025 at the Plakkerskamp informal settlement in Loxton. The victim, 49-year-old Sina Jooste, laid a complaint with Loxton police, alleging that Booysen had physically attacked her. According to Jooste, the accused confronted her after claiming she had sworn at him, which led to the violent assault.
Accused abandoned bail and remained in custody
Following his arrest, Booysen chose to abandon his bail application and was held in custody throughout the duration of the trial proceedings until his eventual conviction and sentencing. The case moved through the court system without any interruptions caused by the accused absconding.
The successful prosecution drew praise from senior police leadership in the province. The District Commissioner of Pixley Ka Seme District, Major General Nomana Mtukushe, singled out the investigating officer for his role in securing the conviction.
"Detective Constable Danston Brown showed exceptional commitment and dedication during the investigation, ultimately helping to remove an unrepentant offender from society."
The case has highlighted ongoing concerns about violent offenders who reoffend while out on parole. Booysen's previous conviction for a comparable crime of violence underscores the dangers posed by repeat offenders who return to their communities without genuine rehabilitation.
With the 12-year sentence now confirmed, authorities in the Northern Cape have expressed confidence that the outcome sends a strong message to those who believe they can continue committing violent acts without facing severe consequences. The matter has been concluded.
South Africans living in informal settlements remain particularly vulnerable to violent crime, and this case underscores persistent concerns about the parole system's ability to prevent reoffending. For communities in the Northern Cape, where police resources are often stretched thin, the lengthy sentence may offer some reassurance that repeat offenders face meaningful consequences. Whether this outcome prompts broader reforms to parole oversight and rehabilitation programmes remains to be seen, but it highlights an urgent need for systemic review.
