The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has confirmed that it has concluded its investigation into the murder of Emmanuel Mbhense, whose body was dumped in a lake in Germiston, allegedly on the instruction of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officers.
IPID said the finalised investigation docket was referred to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) on Tuesday, February 4,2026, for a decision on possible prosecution.
Mbhense was allegedly killed by members of the EMPD on April 15, 2022.
IPID said it kept Mbhense’s family informed throughout the investigation.
“IPID has, in its possession, correspondence from the family, confirming that they were happy with constant feedback from the investigator. In executing its mandate, IPID is guided by the principles of independence, thoroughness, and accountability, as well as the quality and integrity of its investigations,” IPID said in a statement.
“Further action by IPID will be taken once the directorate has received feedback from the DPP.”
The case has drawn renewed attention following revelations made last year during the Madlanga Commission, where key witness Marius van der Merwe, also known as Witness D, testified about Mbhense’s killing.
Van der Merwe was later shot and killed at his home.
During his testimony, Witness D revealed that Mbhense was killed on April 15, 2022 at his home in Brakpan.
His body was discovered the following day in Duduza Dam near Nigel. The death certificate listed blunt force trauma to the head as the cause of death.
It revealed that it is through the Madlanga Commission’s proceedings that the family learned the full circumstances surrounding his death.
Van der Merwe admitted to participating in the torture of Mbhense and attempting to defeat the ends of justice. The disclosures reportedly re-traumatised the family, who were exposed to the details publicly for the first time.
According to Adv. Gerrie Nel, head of AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit, the prolonged delays point to deeper systemic failures.
“The delays and inaction suggest that some law enforcement officials may be shielding the accused. The family has been abandoned by the very institutions meant to uphold justice,” Nel said.
Barry Bateman, spokesperson for the unit, added: “It is unclear why witnesses who testified publicly were not immediately arrested. The state must ensure all individuals, including law enforcement officers implicated, are treated equally before the law.”
Mbhense’s brother, Nhlanhla, described the deceased as “an anchor in the family, who provided for our mother, siblings, and his five children”.
“The very institutions we trusted to seek justice have failed us. We are determined to ensure accountability and protect our dignity,” he said.
AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit said it has formally requested urgent updates from IPID and will continue to monitor the matter to ensure accountability.
Saturday Star