Calls to tighten Madlanga Commission protection after killing of 'Witness D' Marius van der Merwe

The Madlanga Commission have confirmed that they met with security cluster bosses on Saturday following the death of Marius van der Merwe, known as Witness D, and have agreed to strengthen the commission’s security operational plan.

This was announced in a joint media statement alongside the NATJOINTS, SANDF and the State Security Agency (SSA), issued on Saturday night.

The statement read: “The NATJOINTS co-chairs, inclusive of SAPS, SANDF (South African National Defence Force) and SSA, today met with officials of the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry following the gruesome killing of Mr Marius van der Merwe.

“Officials from the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development also formed part of this meeting to discuss the safety and security of witnesses and officials.

According to the statement, the meeting was held at the NATJOINTS Operations Centre in Pretoria and resolved to enhance the Commission’s security plan.

It added: “While extensive measures have been put in place to secure witnesses and officials since the start of the Commission, the meeting identified a need to heighten these measures by roping in the NATJOINTS and all other relevant role players.”

As investigations continue into Van der Merwe’s murder, members of the public have been urged not to speculate.

“NATJOINTS and the commission will brief members of the media in due course,” the statement said.

Van der Merwe, 41, was shot dead outside his home in Brakpan on Friday evening in front of his wife and children. 

Police said an AK-47 rifle was used, and the suspects fled in a white Nissan NP200 bakkie.

He had testified last month about a 2022 incident implicating suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department acting chief Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi and other law enforcement members in an alleged cover-up. 

Van der Merwe was not under witness protection. Justice minister Mmamoloko Kubayi revealed on Saturday, that he had denied witness protection as he owned a security company.

President Cyril Ramaphosa condemned the killing, describing it as a “heinous crime” and calling for a thorough investigation.

“We cannot allow this level of lawlessness, particularly in the security cluster, to continue,” he said, stressing the need for stronger witness protection.

Political parties have expressed deep concern over the killing and have called for urgent protection for witnesses appearing before the Commission.

Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi also condemned the murder, urging law enforcement agencies to fast-track the investigation. 

He urged the public to report any information that could assist investigators.