President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed deep shock and sorrow following the fatal shooting of Marius van der Merwe, a Brakpan security industry professional and former member of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Van der Merwe, who recently testified before the Madlanga Commission, was killed in front of his family outside their home on Friday, 5 December 2025.
The Presidency confirmed that Van der Merwe was shot multiple times in full view of his loved ones. Ramaphosa extended heartfelt condolences to those closest to him, saying he hoped they would find strength in the aftermath of what he described as a devastating and traumatic attack.
In a strongly worded statement, Ramaphosa said he was ‘appalled and saddened’ by the killing of a former public servant who had stepped forward to assist the Madlanga Commission’s work. He noted that while investigators work to determine the exact circumstances, the incident carries troubling implications given Van der Merwe’s recent cooperation with the inquiry.
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The Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Criminality, Political Interference, and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, widely known as the Madlanga Commission, was established by the President in July 2025 to examine wrongdoing within the criminal justice sphere.
Ramaphosa said his thoughts were firmly with the family, who experienced the attack firsthand. He suggested the nature of the shooting raises concerns that elements opposed to accountability may have been angered by Van der Merwe’s testimony.
He stressed that South Africa cannot allow intimidation to derail the fight against corruption. ‘We must remain resolute,’ he said, emphasising that the state will intensify measures to protect whistleblowers and witnesses who support the commission’s work despite threats.
The President called on law enforcement to carry out a thorough investigation and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice without delay.
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