South Africa’s security and justice landscape was shaken this week as the murder of a protected witness from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry moved into a critical phase of investigation. The killing of Marius van der Merwe, known publicly as Witness D for his safety, triggered an urgent response from the highest ranks of the South African Police Service and intensified scrutiny over the protection of individuals linked to high stakes national inquiries.
On Monday evening, 8 December 2025, the National Commissioner of SAPS, General Fannie Masemola, visited the Van der Merwe family at their home in Gauld Street, Brenthurst, Brakpan. His arrival was followed by a detailed media briefing outside the residence, where he outlined the latest developments and assured the public that investigators were closing in on those responsible.
The Commissioner’s visit came two days after the fatal shooting on 6 December. According to the preliminary investigation, Van der Merwe arrived home with his wife shortly after 20:30. As he stepped out to open the gate, a vehicle pulled up behind his car. He was shot several times in the upper body and died at the scene. His wife, who remained in the car, was unharmed. Police confirmed that nothing was taken from him, with his firearm, wallet and mobile phone still in his possession, ruling out robbery and suggesting a deliberate and targeted assassination.
Within hours of the shooting, multiple specialised units converged on the crime scene. Crime scene experts, ballistics analysts, crime intelligence officers and members of the serious and violent crime unit worked through the night, gathering evidence and mapping the events that unfolded. Forensic confirmation that an AK47 rifle was used added a striking indication of the level of planning involved.
General Masemola announced that investigators believe two vehicles were used in the attack. A critical breakthrough came when a white Chevrolet bakkie was found abandoned in Alexandra less than 24 hours after the murder. Its colour and make matched a vehicle captured on surveillance footage trailing Van der Merwe on the night he was killed. The bakkie, discovered on a gravel dead-end road among informal structures, was abandoned by two men on Saturday morning. It has since been taken to SAPS forensic laboratories for comprehensive analysis.
Although police are still searching for the second vehicle, believed to be a sedan also observed lingering near the home that evening, the recovery of the bakkie marks a significant step forward. The Commissioner confirmed that three persons of interest had already been identified, with one undergoing questioning. He emphasised that detectives are closing in as the probe reaches what he described as an advanced and sensitive stage.
General Masemola also revealed that investigations now include two related cases. The first is a 2022 murder case in Duduza, handled by IPID, involving an African man found dead in a dam. The second is the attempted murder of Van der Merwe in September 2025, when he reported being followed by two white men in a Mahindra bakkie. Whether these earlier events tie directly to his murder remains under examination, but their inclusion signals the widening scope of the inquiry.
During his briefing, the Commissioner highlighted that possible motives remain under active investigation. He cautioned against public speculation while acknowledging that investigators are exploring multiple angles, including allegations linked to Van der Merwe’s work, previous testimony and possible criminal networks with broader interests. The Commissioner stressed that no motive would be publicly confirmed until arrests are made and evidence is thoroughly tested in court.
The murder has reignited critical discussions about the safety of witnesses and officials involved in the Madlanga Commission. General Masemola confirmed that he will personally brief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga on the investigation’s progress and hold discussions on enhancing security measures. He has directed the NATJOINTS Co-Chair, Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, to convene an urgent meeting to reinforce protection strategies for commission personnel and witnesses.
Over the recent weekend, the NATJOINTS Structure met with commission officials to refine and finalise an enhanced security plan. The Commissioner noted that protection would be provided where needed, but each case would be assessed carefully to avoid undermining ongoing investigations.
General Masemola dismissed claims that intelligence structures had failed, emphasising that intelligence resources cannot shadow every individual at all times. He pointed to other successful intelligence-led operations on the same day as evidence that systems remain functional and effective.
As the nation watches this case closely, the Commissioner affirmed that the SAPS remains resolute in its pursuit of justice for Van der Merwe and his family. Monday night’s visit was both an act of compassion and a public assurance that the investigation continues with urgency and determination.
For now, South Africans await answers. Investigators continue to piece together the truth behind this calculated and chilling murder, determined to bring those responsible before the courts and restore confidence in the protection of all who step forward to serve justice.
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