The State told the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court today, Wednesday that former SAPS Special Task Force member Matipandile Sotheni was found in possession of cellphones while in custody.

One of the devices has been positively linked to Sotheni. Investigators allege he used it to communicate with a person or persons about the murder case from behind bars.

Sotheni, 42, faces 16 charges, including the December 2025 murder of Madlanga Commission Witness D, Marius van der Merwe, who was shot outside his Brakpan home.

He remains in custody after being denied bail earlier this year.

The matter is expected to be transferred to the High Court once outstanding forensic work has been completed.

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