Breakthrough In ‘Witness D’ Murder: Suspected Gunman Arrested In Joburg After Brakpan Killing

Police have arrested a suspect believed to be responsible for the murder of Marius van der Merwe, known as Witness D, marking a significant development in the high-profile case.

According to police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe, the suspect was taken into custody in Johannesburg on Saturday.

“The task team established to investigate cases emanating from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry have registered their first breakthrough with the arrest of a suspect believed to be the shooter in the Marius Van Der Merwe murder case,” Mathe said.

She added that investigators also seized a vehicle believed to have been used during the killing.

“The vehicle believed to have been used on the day that Witness D was murdered has also been seized.”

Special Task Team Secures Arrest Warrant in Investigation

The arrest was carried out after the specialised team investigating cases linked to the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry obtained a J50 warrant.

Van der Merwe, widely known by the nickname “Vlam”, was gunned down outside his home in Brakpan on the East Rand on 5 December. The shooting occurred shortly after he had returned home with his wife.

The slain man had previously worked in the security industry and was also a former officer with the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department.

Authorities have not yet released further details about the suspect or the circumstances surrounding the arrest.

Witness D Testimony at Madlanga Commission Preceded Killing

Shortly before his death, Van der Merwe had appeared before the commission as “Witness D”.

The inquiry, established by President Cyril Ramaphosa, is investigating allegations of corruption, criminal networks and interference within law enforcement structures, particularly within the EMPD.

During his testimony, Van der Merwe alleged that former EMPD acting deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi had ordered the disposal of a suspect’s body.

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He claimed the individual had allegedly been tortured and killed by EMPD officers before being dumped in a dam.

Police confirmed that the suspect arrested in connection with Van der Merwe’s murder is expected to appear before the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court on Monday.