UPDATE: Van der Merwe murder draws presidential response and call for action

The murder of Brenthurst resident Marius van der Merwe has prompted attention from President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Ramaphosa condemned the killing, and offered his deep condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Van der Merwe, who was a security industry member and former EMPD official who recently testified before the Madlanga Commission.

He wished Van der Merwe’s family strength for their recovery from a deadly trauma.

“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

Ramaphosa established the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, better known as the Madlanga Commission, in July.

“My thoughts are with the deeply traumatised family who came under attack last night. They faced death in circumstances that suggest Van der Merwe’s brave testimony angered elements in our society who want to undermine the rule of law and set back the quest for truth and consequences in the fight against corruption.

“Amid this trauma we must remain resolute to end corruption and bring to justice those who have done wrong and are plotting to do more.

“As government, we will redouble our efforts to protect whistleblowers, including witnesses before the Madlanga Commission and the Commission itself, as they serve the nation with bravery in the face of criminal threats.”

Ramaphosa urges law enforcement agencies to undertake a thorough investigation and to ensure that the perpetrators face justice.

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