The funeral of Marius “Vlam” van der Merwe, also known as Witness D at the Madlanga commission of inquiry, will take place on Wednesday at Medley House in Brakpan, two weeks after he was shot dead outside his home.
Van der Merwe was killed in his driveway in what police have described as a cold-blooded murder. His death came just weeks after he delivered explosive testimony at the Madlanga commission in November, where he spoke about alleged wrongdoing within the Ekurhuleni metro police department (EMPD).
During his evidence, Van der Merwe alleged that EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi had instructed him to dispose of the body of Emmanuel Mbense. Mbense died during an interrogation that allegedly involved tubing at the hands of police officers.
As investigations continue, police believe they have identified the vehicle used in the killing. Last week, national police commissioner Gen Fannie Masemola met with the investigating team before briefing the Van der Merwe family on progress in the high-profile case.
Masemola said a white Chevrolet bakkie, which was later found abandoned in Alexandra, matches the description of a vehicle captured on CCTV footage on the night Van der Merwe was shot dead. He added that investigations were at an advanced stage, with officers following several leads, including forensic analysis of the vehicle.
Meanwhile, support has been shown to Van der Merwe’s family as they prepare to lay him to rest. Omega Tombstones CEO Danie van den Berg said the company had offered to assist with a cremation urn at no cost.
“We chose to assist this family because they have suffered a tragic and violent loss under circumstances that deeply moved us,” Van den Berg said.
He described Van der Merwe as someone who showed courage by standing up for the truth, adding that his life was taken in an act of violence.
Van den Berg said the company’s decision was based on compassion, not business interests.
“As a business that works closely with grieving families every day, we felt it was our moral responsibility to support them in any way we could. This was not about publicity or profit, but about respect, compassion and recognising a man many regard as a hero. We hope this small act brings comfort to the family and reminds the community that bravery and integrity should never be forgotten.”
Van der Merwe’s death has drawn national attention, not only because of the manner in which he was killed, but also because of his role as a key witness at the Madlanga commission, where he made serious allegations involving senior police officials.
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