IPID concludes probe into Emmanuel Mbhense death
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate said on Wednesday that it has concluded its investigation into the murder of Emmanuel Mbhense.
Mbhense’s body was found dumped at a lake in Germiston, allegedly at the instruction of Ekurhuleni metro police officers.
The finalised investigation docket was referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions on Wednesday for a decision.
Emmanuel Mbhense was allegedly killed by members of EMPD in April 2022.
Harrowing details about his death emerged during testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
The revelations came from the late Marius van der Merwe, known as Witness D, who was himself shot and killed shortly after giving evidence.
During his appearance before the commission, Van der Merwe detailed the events leading to Mbhense’s death.
He testified that Mbhense, a father of five, was allegedly tortured and murdered by a group consisting of law enforcement officials and private security personnel, after which his body was disposed of in a dam.
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Van der Merwe’s testimony was considered particularly significant because he claimed to have first-hand knowledge of the incident and had reportedly been cooperating with investigators prior to his death.
“It is further alleged that he (Mbhense) was implicated in a business robbery in Boksburg North in March 2022; hence, the investigation by EMPD and his truck was used in that robbery,” IPID spokesperson Lizzy Suping said.
“Further action by IPID will be taken once the directorate has received feedback from the DPP.”
