Suspect Arrested in Murder of Madlanga Commission Witness, Marius van der Merwe

Johannesburg, South Africa – A suspect has been arrested in connection with the murder of Marius van der Merwe, also known as “Witness D,” who testified before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. The arrest, made in Johannesburg on Saturday, marks a significant breakthrough in the investigation, according to Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, a police spokeswoman.

Details of the Arrest

The task team investigating cases stemming from the Madlanga Commission secured a J50 warrant of arrest prior to the suspect’s apprehension. Authorities have also seized the vehicle believed to have been used during the commission of the murder. The suspect is expected to appear in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court on Monday. News24 reports that the task team was established by national police commissioner Fannie Masemola, at the instruction of President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Who was Marius van der Merwe?

Marius van der Merwe, nicknamed “Vlam,” was gunned down outside his home in Brakpan on December 5, shortly after returning home with his wife. Daily News identifies him as a former Ekhurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) official and a member of the security industry.

The Madlanga Commission

The Madlanga Commission was established by President Cyril Ramaphosa to investigate allegations of corruption, criminal networks, and interference within law-enforcement structures, particularly concerning members of the EMPD. Daily News reports that Van der Merwe, in his testimony as “Witness D,” alleged that former EMPD acting deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi ordered the disposal of a suspect’s body, after the suspect was allegedly tortured and killed by EMPD officers and dumped in a dam.

Ongoing Investigation

Investigators are currently conducting search and seizure operations at several addresses linked to the suspect. SABC News confirms that the team, led by General Fanie Masemola, took over the investigation shortly after being appointed. Further details are expected to emerge as the case progresses.