Slain witness's family alleges hit was linked to evidence at Madlanga Commission

The family of a murdered witness in the Madlanga commission of inquiry believes the hit on his life was ordered by figures implicated in his testimony.

Mariuis Van Der Merwe, who appeared before the Inquiry as Witness D, was shot dead outside his Brakpan home in December.

His alleged shooter, Matipandile Sotheni, appeared in the Brakpan Magistrate’s court on Monday, after he was nabbed over the weekend. 

The shooter has been identified as a former police officer who served under the special task force at SAPS.

Sotheni entered the dock, draped in all black and quietly observing court proceedings.

Behind him sat Van Der Merwe’s parents, wife, and sister, who were all visibly overcome with emotion.

His sister, Natasha, said the people who took her brother’s life deserve to rot in prison.

"I just hope that they catch everyone who’s involved. We know it’s not just a hit. It comes from higher places. We really hope they catch the people who are involved."

The other suspects have been identified as Wiandre Pretorius, who died by suicide after being implicated at the commission, while a third suspect is on the run. 

Meanwhile, the alleged shooter will return to court next Wednesday for a formal bail application.

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