–Staff Writer/ Mon, 16 March 2026
A 41-year-old man accused of allegedly killing a key witness linked to the Madlanga Commission has appeared in court.
Matipandile Sotheni (41) appeared before the Brakpan Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 16 March 2026. He faces charges of conspiracy to commit murder, premeditated murder, three counts of attempted murder and unlawful possession of ammunition.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the charges relate to the killing of Marius van der Merwe, also known as “Witness D”.
NPA regional spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana said it is alleged that after Van der Merwe testified before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry about matters related to a murder investigation in Brakpan in November 2025, the accused allegedly conspired to have him killed.
Mahanjana said the accused allegedly conducted surveillance on the deceased before carrying out the attack.
“It is further alleged that on 5 December 2025 the accused positioned himself near the deceased’s residence. When the deceased arrived home with his wife and two minor children, the accused allegedly shot him,” she said.
Van der Merwe was declared dead at the scene. The shooting also led to three counts of attempted murder linked to the attack.
Following investigations by the Madlanga Task Team, which was established to investigate cases arising from the commission of inquiry, Sotheni was arrested on 14 March 2026.
The case was postponed to 25 March 2026 for an opposed bail application. Sotheni remains in custody.
News Junction (Gold Standard)
