Marius “Vlam” van der Merwe, the concealed witness known only as “Witness D” at the Madlanga Commission, was shot dead outside his Brakpan home on Friday night.
Van der Merwe arrived home with his wife shortly after 20:30. As he opened his gate, he was shot multiple times in the upper body and died at the scene. His wife, unharmed in the vehicle, witnessed the attack. Police confirm nothing was stolen, ruling out robbery.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe stated that ballistics evidence shows an AK-47 was used. Specialised SAPS units are investigating and searching for the hit orderer, gunmen, and weapon.
Explosive Testimony
Van der Merwe had recently given testimony alleging that in April 2022, Ekurhuleni Metro Police, SAPS officers, and private security personnel tortured a suspected robber to death. He claimed he was then ordered by EMPD chief Julius Mkhwanazi to dispose of the body, which he did out of fear before later reporting it.
National Response
President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the “heinous act,” calling it an apparent attempt to intimidate those exposing wrongdoing. He vowed to redouble efforts to protect whistleblowers and commission witnesses.
SAPS National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola is set to brief Justice Madlanga on the investigation and discuss enhanced security for commission participants.
Police have not confirmed a link between the murder and Van der Merwe’s testimony. A murder case is open.