Ramaphosa calls for thorough probe into Witness D's killing
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate the shooting of Marius van der Merwe, who testified as Witness D at the Madlanga Commission.
Van der Merwe, a Brakpan-based security professional testified before the Madlanga Commission in November.
He implicated suspended deputy metro police chief Julius Mkhwanazi and private security personnel in violent crimes, including robbery, torture, and murder.
He was shot multiple times on Friday evening in full view of his family outside their home.
Ramaphosa extended his condolences to the family, wishing them strength to recover from the trauma.
"While our law enforcement agencies establish the circumstances leading to this heinous act, I am appalled and saddened by this attack on a former public servant who recently served the cause of justice and integrity by testifying at the Madlanga Commission," Ramaphosa said.
The president, who established the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, better known as the Madlanga Commission, in July 2025, emphasised the importance of protecting whistleblowers.
"My thoughts are with the deeply traumatised family who came under attack last night," he said.
"They faced death in circumstances that suggest Van der Merwe's brave testimony angered elements in our society who want to undermine the rule of law and set back the quest for truth and consequences in the fight against corruption.
"Amid this trauma we must remain resolute to end corruption and bring to justice those who have done wrong and are plotting to do more," he added.
"As government, we will redouble our efforts to protect whistleblowers, including witnesses before the Madlanga Commission and the commission itself, as they serve the nation with bravery in the face of criminal threats."
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