Overview
- Matipandile Sotheni, 41, a former SAPS Special Task Force marksman, was arrested in Johannesburg and appeared in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court as the alleged shooter.
- The case was postponed to 25 March for a formal bail application, and the NPA says it will oppose bail because the Schedule 6 charges are severe.
- Prosecutors list counts of premeditated murder, conspiracy, three attempted‑murder charges and unlawful possession of ammunition against Sotheni.
- SAPS says a suspected getaway car has been seized, the AK‑47 believed to have been used is still being sought, and deceased suspect Wiandre Pretorius is linked as the driver.
- Police say further arrests are expected as inquiries continue into a possible mastermind, while Van der Merwe’s family reports death threats and experts warn about ex‑elite officers being recruited by criminal networks.