What the data shows
The recent assassination of Marius van der Merwe, known as Witness D, raises a critical question: Who is Matipandile Sotheni, and what led to his alleged involvement in this crime? Sotheni, a former member of the South African Police Service’s elite Special Task Force, has been identified as the shooter in this high-profile case.
On March 16, 2026, Sotheni appeared in the Brakpan Magistrates Court, facing multiple charges including murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition. He was arrested just two days prior, on March 14, 2026, in Johannesburg, following the shooting of van der Merwe outside his home, an incident witnessed by his family.
Details surrounding the case indicate that Sotheni, 41, had resigned from the police service in 2019. Authorities believe that the hit on Witness D was a side gig for Sotheni after his departure from SAPS. Athlenda Mathe, a spokesperson for the police, noted, “It is quite unfortunate that our tactical operators are being targeted by your private companies, by individuals who are wealthy to protect and guard them.” This statement underscores the complexities surrounding the case.
Witness D was shot at approximately 8 PM, shortly after he had testified at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, a significant event that has drawn attention to issues of corruption and misconduct within the police force. The firearm used in the assassination is believed to be an AK47, which police are still searching for.
Matipandile Sotheni’s background as a marksman and his training in the Special Task Force have raised concerns about the nature of his alleged actions. Mathe described Sotheni’s skills, stating, “If you look into his background in the police he was a marksman, he is close to a sniper because of his skills.” This level of expertise adds a chilling dimension to the charges against him.
The court proceedings have been postponed to March 25, 2026, for a formal bail application. As the case unfolds, the implications of Sotheni’s alleged actions are profound, not only for the individuals involved but also for the broader context of law enforcement in South Africa.
Natasha van der Merwe, the wife of the deceased, expressed the emotional toll of the incident, revealing that she has been diagnosed with PTSD and severe trauma, which causes depression and anxiety. Her statement highlights the human impact of this tragic event.
As the investigation continues, many questions remain unanswered, particularly regarding the motivations behind the assassination and the potential involvement of other parties. Details remain unconfirmed, and the public awaits further developments in this disturbing case.
