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Madlanga Commission Witness Marius van der Merwe Killed in Brakpan

The killing has prompted an urgent review of witness protection.

Overview

  • Marius van der Merwe, 41, identified as Witness D at the inquiry, was shot outside his Brakpan home shortly after 8 p.m., with his wife and children unharmed.
  • Investigators say an AK-47 was used and are pursuing suspects linked to a white Nissan NP200 bakkie captured on CCTV.
  • Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi confirmed van der Merwe had been offered state protection and declined it.
  • National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola convened a NATJOINTS meeting and will brief Judge Mbuyiseli Madlanga on measures to safeguard witnesses.
  • President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the attack and vowed stronger safeguards as political and civil society groups demand protections and some witnesses consider withdrawing from the inquiry.