By localnew 
Suspect Arrested in Connection With Murder of Witness Linked to Madlanga Commission
Police have arrested a suspect in connection with the murder of a key witness linked to the Madlanga Commission, marking a significant development in a case that shocked the country.
The witness, Marius van der Merwe, also known as “Witness D”, was shot and killed outside his home in Brakpan, Gauteng, in December 2025. He had recently testified before the commission, where he made serious allegations about corruption and criminal activities involving members of law-enforcement structures.
According to police, the suspect was arrested following an ongoing investigation into the assassination. Authorities believe the killing may have been linked to the witness’s testimony at the inquiry, which is investigating allegations of corruption, political interference, and organised criminal activity within the criminal justice system.
Van der Merwe, a former officer in the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department and owner of a private security company, testified before the commission under the pseudonym “Witness D.” During his testimony, he alleged that senior officials were involved in covering up the death of a robbery suspect in 2022.
Shortly after providing evidence to the commission, the whistleblower was ambushed by gunmen outside his home while arriving with his family. He was shot multiple times and died at the scene in what investigators believe was a targeted hit intended to silence him.
Police had earlier identified several persons of interest in the murder investigation and launched a nationwide manhunt for those responsible. The latest arrest is seen as a breakthrough in the case.
Authorities have indicated that investigations are continuing and further arrests may follow as they work to uncover those behind the killing.
The murder sparked widespread outrage across South Africa and renewed calls for stronger protection of whistleblowers and witnesses involved in major corruption investigations.
Officials have urged anyone with information that could assist the investigation to come forward as efforts continue to bring all those responsible to justice.