By localnew 
Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi has vehemently rejected any suggestion that he is connected to the assassination of whistleblower Marius “Vlam” van der Merwe.
Van der Merwe (41), widely known as “Witness D” at the Madlanga Commission, was gunned down with an AK-47 outside his Brakpan home on Friday night, in full view of his wife and children.
Just three weeks ago, the whistleblower alleged before the commission that Mkhwanazi instructed him in 2022 to dispose of a suspect’s body after the man allegedly died during torture by EMPD officers.
Speaking to journalists on Sunday, Mkhwanazi dismissed the claims outright.
“I know nothing about this murder. I am not a criminal,” he said.
The Hawks have launched an investigation, while fears grow that the killing could deter other witnesses from coming forward.
Police are appealing to the public for information. Anyone with details is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111.
