Former Elite Police Officer Denies Involvement in Witness D’s Murder
A former member of South Africa’s Special Task Force (STF), Matipandile Sotheni, has denied any involvement in the murder of Marius van der Merwe, also known as “Witness D.” Sotheni, 41, made the statements during his second appearance at the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court in Ekurhuleni on Wednesday, March 25, 2026.
Sotheni stands accused of killing Van der Merwe at his Brakpan home on December 5, 2025, in the presence of his family. He now faces charges including conspiracy to commit murder, premeditated murder, three counts of attempted murder, and unlawful possession of ammunition. The charge sheet details the alleged events of the night, including the employ of an AK-47 in the shooting.
Sotheni Speaks Out in Court
During proceedings, Sotheni attempted to address the court directly, asserting his innocence. “I have nothing to do with this crime,” he stated.
The magistrate intervened, halting his address. Sotheni also questioned his legal representation, claiming the lawyer present had not been instructed by him. “The lawyer here, it is the first time I see him today. He has not been given instruction by me. He did not even take my statement, your Worship. I’m arrested here for something I did not commit,” he said.
Sotheni objected to the postponement of the case, expressing his desire to clear his name. “I have not done anything here. I’m on social media. I’m everywhere. My name is painted [in a bad light]. So, postponing this case, it’s delaying the matter and I wish to assist the court. I’m ready with my statement. I’m ready to say what had happened.”
‘I’m Not Okay’
The case was postponed to May 14, 2026, for a formal bail application. According to reports, Sotheni resigned from the South African Police Service (SAPS) in 2019.
Speaking to the media outside the court, Sotheni continued to maintain his innocence. “I have a lot to say. No, I’m not okay. I must take my children to school. I’ve got a lot to do. I’ve got three kids. I haven’t done this.”
Witness D’s Death Linked to Another Murder
Van der Merwe, known as “Witness D” at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, provided testimony implicating individuals in the alleged torture and killing of Emmanuel Mbhense. His testimony claimed he was instructed by Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi to dispose of Mbhense’s body.
Mbhense allegedly died after being assaulted by a group including law enforcement officers and private security personnel in Brakpan, suffering blunt force trauma before his body was found in a lake in Germiston.
The investigation into Mbhense’s death initially identified 12 persons of interest, including Wiandré Pretorius and Van der Merwe. However, the number has decreased due to several deaths. Pretorius, believed to have driven the vehicle used in Van der Merwe’s shooting, died by suicide on February 7, 2026. Van der Merwe and two others have also died as the investigation continues, leaving eight suspects still alive. Police have linked Sotheni to the shooting, alleging he was the gunman.
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