Sotheni denies all allegations in a dramatic court moment as his bail hearing is postponed for further investigation. Image:X
Madlanga Commission
1Min
South Africa
Sotheni denies all allegations in a dramatic court moment as his bail hearing is postponed for further investigation.
A former SAPS Special Task Force member, Matipandile Sotheni, has returned to Brakpan Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday for a bail hearing over the December 2025 murder of Marius van der Merwe, known as “Witness D” at the Madlanga Commission.
Van der Merwe, an ex-Ekurhuleni Metro Police officer, was killed in a drive-by shooting outside his home after testifying about alleged police involvement in torture and murder.
Sotheni, 41, faces charges including premeditated murder, conspiracy, the attempted murder of two children who were present, and illegal possession of ammunition.
Matipandile Sotheni raised his hands and directly addressed the court after his bail was postponed, denying all charges in the murder of Witness D.
He told the court, “The allegations that are levelled against me, I deny them fully. I don't know this lawyer, I have nothing to do with crime,” and added, “I’m ready with my statement. I’m ready to say what happened,” expressing frustration at the delays, saying, “My name is painted… postponing this case is delaying the matter.”
The matter was postponed to 14 May for further investigation.
