Witness D murder trial postponed to next week for bail hearing

The matter against a former police officer accused of the murder of Marius van der Merwe has been postponed to next week Wednesday for a bail hearing at the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court, east of Johannesburg. 
41-year-old Matipandile Sotheni faces charges of murder, attempted murder, premeditated murder and possession of illegal ammunition. 
Van der Merwe, who was known as Witness D at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, was shot and killed outside his home in Brakpan on December 5 last year.  
National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe says Wiandre Pretorious was the driver of the Suzuki Swift that was used in the drive by shooting and Sotheni was in the passenger seat. 
“According to our investigation, Wiandre Pretorious, on that evening was the driver of the Suzuki Swift that was used in the drive-by shooting and Sotheni was then in the passenger seat and he pulled the trigger. Two shots – one shot that killed Marius van der Merwe. So, our overwhelming evidence then places them both on the scene.” 
VIDEO | NPA & SAPS brief media after Matipandile Sotheni’s court appearance:

Marius ‘Witness D’ Van Der Merwe’s sister, Natasha, says the family wants the mastermind behind his killing.

Marius Van Der Merwe’s sister Natasha speaks to the media. For more visit
Video: @Chriseldalewis pic.twitter.com/qSSN01YTUn
— SABC News (@SABCNews) March 16, 2026

 
 
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