The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has concluded its investigation into the murder of Emmanuel Mbhense, whose body was discovered dumped in a lake in Germiston, allegedly on the instruction of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officers.

IPID spokesperson, Lizzy Suping, confirmed that the finalised investigation docket was referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, for a decision on possible prosecution.

According to Suping, Mbhense was allegedly killed by members of the EMPD on 22 April 2022. The investigation further revealed allegations that Mbhense had been implicated in a business robbery that took place in Boksburg North in March 2022. It is alleged that his truck was used during the commission of the robbery, which led to EMPD officers investigating him.

Throughout the investigation, Suping said IPID maintained regular communication with Mbhense’s family, keeping them informed of developments in the case. The directorate said it is in possession of correspondence from the family confirming their satisfaction with the consistent feedback provided by the assigned investigator.

IPID reiterated that in carrying out its mandate, it is guided by the principles of independence, thoroughness, accountability, and the integrity and quality of its investigations.

The directorate said further action will be taken once feedback is received from the DPP.

For the last three years, the Mbhense family questioned the circumstances that led to his demise. 

It was thanks to the testimony of Witness D at the Madlanga Commission, Marius ‘Vlam’ van der Merwe, that his family was able to slowly piece together what led to the father of five’s brutal murder. 

During his in-camera testimony, van der Merwe alleged that the 51-year-old was tortured to death and he (van der Merwe) was ordered to dispose of his body.

Mbhense’s older brother, Nhlanhla, said the family was left devastated by van der Merwe’s words.

“For a long time, we lived with unanswered questions, not knowing how he died. Hearing the truth in that way, in front of strangers… it forced us to relive his suffering. We were retraumatised as each detail unfolded,” he said. 

The family has since turned to AfriForum to assist in seeking justice. 

Following his testimony, Van der Merwe was murdered in full view of his wife and children. Police believe van der Merwe’s murder was a hit and have since found the vehicle involved in the murder and have identified three persons of interest in the case. 

sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za

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