Matipandile Sotheni appeared at Brakpan Magistrate's Court on 16 March in connection with the murder of Marius van der Merwe, known as Witness D at the Madlanga Commission.

Matipandile Sotheni – the man accused of assassinating Marius van der Merwe, known as Witness D at the Madlanga Commission – has made his first appearance in court.

Sotheni, 41, wearing all black, appeared before a packed Brakpan Magistrate’s Court on Monday morning.

Standing in the dock, the appearance was short-lived as the matter was postponed for a bail application.

He has been charged with murder, conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, and the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

Van der Merwe was shot and killed outside his Brakpan home in December shortly after his explosive testimony before the commission about corruption and a murder cover-up involving members of the Ekurhuleni metro police.

More to follow.

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