Pretoria – President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his condolences to the family and colleagues of Marius van der Merwe, the former Ekurhuleni Metro Police officer and security industry professional who was tragically gunned down outside his Brakpan home on the evening of 5 December 2025.
Van der Merwe, who recently testified before the Madlanga Commission, was shot multiple times in the presence of his family. His death has raised concerns, particularly after his public testimony in which he exposed corruption within the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department.
President Ramaphosa condemned the killing and expressed deep sympathy for the family. “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,” said Ramaphosa.
The President highlighted that the tragic incident occurred just weeks after Van der Merwe’s appearance at the Commission, where he provided explosive revelations about corruption in South Africa’s criminal justice system. Ramaphosa suggested that the attack may have been motivated by Van der Merwe’s testimony, which could have angered powerful individuals involved in criminal activities.
“The deeply traumatised family, who faced death last night, is a reminder of the dangers whistleblowers face as they fight to bring corruption to light,” Ramaphosa said. “We must remain resolute to end corruption and bring to justice those who are involved in such acts.”
Ramaphosa vowed that his government would increase efforts to protect whistleblowers and ensure the safety of witnesses like Van der Merwe. He urged law enforcement agencies to conduct a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
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