By localnew 
Brakpan, South Africa — New revelations have emerged linking suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi to the brutal murder of Marius “Witness D” van der Merwe, a key whistleblower at the Madlanga Commission.
Van der Merwe, 41, was shot dead outside his Brakpan home on 5 December 2025, in an attack widely regarded as targeted and premeditated. Authorities confirmed that nothing was stolen from him, indicating that the killing was likely motivated by his testimony rather than robbery.
Allegations Against Mkhwanazi
According to testimonies provided at the Madlanga Commission, van der Merwe had exposed a shocking cover-up involving the death of a man suffocated while in police custody. He claimed that Mkhwanazi allegedly ordered the disposal of the victim’s body to conceal the crime. Another former EMPD officer corroborated that Mkhwanazi had been involved in orchestrating cover-ups involving rogue officers.
These revelations positioned van der Merwe as a pivotal witness, whose testimony threatened to expose high-level misconduct within the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department.
The Murder and Investigation
On the evening of 5 December, van der Merwe was shot while opening his gate. His wife, present at the scene, survived unharmed. Police immediately launched a manhunt for the assailants. A vehicle believed to have been used in the killing was later recovered in Alexandra, Johannesburg.
Authorities are investigating whether Mkhwanazi or his associates directly ordered the hit. The case has sparked widespread outrage, with civil-society organisations and opposition parties demanding stronger protection for whistleblowers.
Public Reaction and Implications
The assassination highlights the dangers faced by whistleblowers in South Africa, especially those exposing corruption and police misconduct. Public confidence in institutions tasked with investigating abuse is under strain, as the murder raises fears that key testimonies can be silenced through intimidation or violence.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has condemned the killing, emphasizing the government’s commitment to protecting witnesses and ensuring that justice is served. Analysts warn that the case could have significant ramifications for the integrity of the Madlanga Commission and ongoing efforts to hold senior officials accountable.