Emmanuel Mbense murder: Sixth accused joins Julius Mkhwanazi and others in high-profile case

The investigation into the brutal 2022 killing of Emmanuel Mbense has taken a new turn with the formal charging of a sixth suspect. Jaun Maree Eksteen appeared in court on 13 August 2026, joining a list of accused that includes high-ranking officials and private individuals.

Eksteen is the widow of Wiandre Pretorius, a man previously implicated in the case who was also under scrutiny for the assassination of a key witness. Pretorius took his own life in early 2026 before he could be brought to justice for his alleged role in the conspiracy.

A Dark Business Betrayal

The victim, 51-year-old father of five Emmanuel Mbense, suffered a horrific end after being accused of involvement in a business robbery. Investigators believe he was tortured and murdered before his body was discarded at the Duduza dam near Nigel.

For nearly three years, the Mbense family remained in the dark about the exact circumstances surrounding his disappearance and death. The truth only began to surface in late 2025 due to explosive testimony provided during the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

The Witness D Revelation

Marius van der Merwe, testifying as 'Witness D', confessed to dumping Mbense’s body in the dam. He alleged that he was acting under direct orders from Julius Mkhwanazi, the suspended Deputy Chief of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD).

Van der Merwe’s detailed accounts have provided the police with the necessary leads to conduct raids on various properties, including that of Etienne van de Walt. These operations have sparked significant public debate as South Africans monitor the progress of this complex crime saga.

Current Status of the Accused

Eksteen now stands trial alongside Mkhwanazi, Cobus Janse van Rensburg, Bhekokwakhe Sibande, Adrian Mackenzie, and Kersha-Leigh. The group faces various charges related to the April 2022 incident that has gripped the Gauteng region.

As the case proceeds, the focus remains on the alleged abuse of power by law enforcement officials and the web of associates involved in the cover-up. The court will continue to examine the forensic evidence and testimony linked to the Duduza dam discovery.