Former Police Reservist Convicted Of Murder In Hanover Park Shooting

Family of Hanover Park resident Marlon Fuller finally saw justice served as former police reservist Constable Johan van der Merwe was convicted of his murder by the Wynberg Regional Court.

Van der Merwe was found guilty of firing the fatal shot that killed 38-year-old Fuller in December 2020. Fuller was struck in the abdomen when Van der Merwe allegedly discharged a shotgun into a crowd. His death sparked violent protests in the community, with residents accusing police of using excessive force while dispersing the gathering.

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Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) launched an investigation into the incident, leading to the arrest of another reservist, Constable Eugene Jones. Jones was initially charged with defeating the ends of justice, but those charges were later dropped.

Van der Merwe’s trial commenced in May 2023, where he pleaded not guilty to all charges. However, the prosecution argued that, as a reservist, he was not authorized to possess a shotgun. Further concerns were raised regarding how he obtained the ammunition, as it had not been issued by the Philippi SAPS station where he was stationed.

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While State witnesses from Cascade Court testified that the shooting was unprovoked, Van der Merwe claimed he mistakenly believed he was firing rubber bullets. His defense alleged that upon arrival at Cascade Court, he encountered a group of approximately 35 people violating lockdown regulations by consuming alcohol and using drugs.

National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila confirmed that Van der Merwe was found guilty of one count of murder and one count of illegal possession of ammunition.

Sentencing phase will follow soon, as the Hanover Park community continues to seek justice for Fuller’s tragic death.

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