Marius van der Merwe, also known as Witness D, met a tragic end after surviving two previous assassination attempts. This video delves into the shocking truth behind his brutal murder, exploring his testimony at the Madlanga commission, where he exposed corruption within the Ekurhuleni metro police. Discover the hidden dangers and powerful forces that sought to silence him forever.
Van der Merwe, owner of a security company battling illegal mining, testified about an incident on April 15, 2022, involving Cobus Jansen van Rensburg (Ghostguard Security), Jaco Hanekom, Wiandre Pretorius, Constable Juan-Mare Eksteen, Zander Fritz, Kersha-Leigh Stols, Aiden McKenzie, Etienne van der Walt (Titen Security), and Julius Mkhwanazi (Ekurhuleni metro police deputy chief). He described witnessing questionable methods during an interrogation and alleged that Mkhwanazi instructed the disposal of a suspect's body. Van der Merwe carried out the task, placing the body in Spaarwater Pan.
His testimony implicated high-ranking officials, making him a marked man. He warned his wife, Lee-Anne McLean, and mother-in-law, Lesley McLean, of the impending danger. His work with QRF Task Team combating illegal mining (zama zama operations) in areas like Plastic City also made him enemies.
The first assassination attempt occurred in September near Plastic City, where a white Mahindra bakkie rammed his vehicle, and shots were fired. The second attempt, just last week, left him with a grazed forehead. In his final days, Van der Merwe contacted eNCA presenter Yusuf Abramjee, claiming to have intelligence on state actors facilitating illegal mining.
On the night of his murder, van der Merwe dined with his family at the Rosetulee family restaurant. Manager Antonio Meireles noted their visit. Upon returning home, attackers ambushed him, firing an AK-47. His wife and children witnessed the attack.
President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the murder, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation and enhanced witness protection. Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi revealed that van der Merwe had declined protection. Local business owner Barney Andrews and ANC regional secretary Jongizizwe Dlabathi mourned his death, viewing it as an attack on justice.
DA MP Ian Cameron and crime expert Chad Thomas warned of the risks faced by those involved in the Madlanga commission. Police spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe confirmed that Gen Fannie Masemola would brief Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga on the investigation. Security expert Mike Bolhuis suspects Julius Mkhwanazi's involvement.
This case joins a list of assassinated whistleblowers, including Babita Deokaran and Mpho Mafole. ANC national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu called for enhanced witness protection. DA spokesperson Advocate Glynnis Breytenbach and MK Party spokesperson Nhlamulo Ndhlela condemned the murder. EFF, ActionSA MP Dereleen James, and Good Party secretary-general Brett Herron also expressed concerns. Institute of Security Studies researcher Lizette Lancaster called for a better system with more resources.
Marius van der Merwe, nicknamed "Vlam," leaves behind a legacy of fighting corruption and illegal mining. His Facebook posts documented the dangers he faced. His company's website detailed their mission to combat social ills.
This video explores the details of the September attack, the recent attempt, and Van der Merwe's outreach to Yusuf Abramjee. It revisits his testimony, highlighting the alleged involvement of Julius Mkhwanazi.
The police investigation continues, focusing on the motive behind the attack and the use of an AK-47.
Van der Merwe's legacy includes disrupting illegal mining operations and exposing potential ties to corrupt officials.
Join us as we uncover the layers of corruption, bravery, and loss in this tragic story.
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