Heavy security was deployed at the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court as the man accused of murdering whistle-blower and Madlanga Commission witness, Marius van der Merwe, made his first court appearance.
The accused, Matipandile Sotheni, was arrested by a specialised police task team and is believed to be the alleged gunman responsible for the killing. He faces charges including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, and attempted murder.
Van der Merwe, also known as “Witness D” at the Madlanga Commission, was shot and killed outside his home in Brakpan in December 2025, shortly after testifying about alleged corruption and a suspected murder cover-up involving law enforcement officials.
Police have confirmed that a vehicle believed to have been used during the killing has been seized, while investigations continue as authorities search for another suspect linked to the case.
The matter was briefly heard and has been postponed to allow for a formal bail application.
