A suspect believed to be the triggerman in the assassination of Marius van der Merwe, known as Witness D at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, has been arrested in Johannesburg. The arrest was made by a specialised police task team established by national police commissioner Fannie Masemola, on the instruction of President Cyril Ramaphosa, to investigate cases arising from the commission.
According to the police’s national spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the team secured a warrant of arrest earlier this week after gathering what they described as overwhelming evidence. The suspect, believed to be the person who allegedly shot and killed Van der Merwe, was arrested in Johannesburg on Saturday.
Investigation and Arrest
“Investigators are currently conducting search and seizure operations at several addresses linked to the suspect. Police have also seized a vehicle believed to have been used during the murder of the witness,” said Mathe. The suspect is expected to make his first appearance in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
Van der Merwe, a former officer of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department and owner of a private security company, made explosive allegations before the commission about corruption and an alleged cover-up involving members of the metro police. He was shot and killed outside his home in Brakpan in December, shortly after appearing before the commission.
Concerns About Whistleblower Safety
His murder raised serious concerns about the safety of whistleblowers and witnesses involved in sensitive investigations. The South African Police Service has been working to ensure the protection of witnesses and whistleblowers, and this arrest is a significant step in that direction.
Some of the key points about the case include:
- The suspect was arrested in Johannesburg on Saturday
- The police team secured a warrant of arrest after gathering overwhelming evidence
- The suspect is expected to make his first appearance in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court on Monday
The investigation into Van der Merwe’s murder is ongoing, and the police are working to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. As the case unfolds, it is likely to have significant implications for the safety of whistleblowers and witnesses in South Africa.
