Investigation into murder of key witness in Ekurhuleni raises more questions than answers

The brutal murder of Marius van der Merwe, a key witness at the Madlanga Judicial Commission of Inquiry, has sent shockwaves through the Brakpan community, raising serious concerns about safety for those who dare to speak out against crime. As investigations unfold, a senior officer from the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) has come forward, categorically denying the involvement of illegal miners, commonly referred to as zama-zamas, in the cold-blooded killing.

Speaking under the condition of anonymity, the officer, who has closely worked with Van der Merwe, asserted that if the zama-zamas had harboured intentions to eliminate him, they would have capitalised on numerous opportunities in the past. The Plastic City informal settlement, where Van der Merwe was known for his relentless efforts to combat illegal mining, has long been a source of strife for local residents and law enforcement alike. Thousands of shacks had been destroyed in an operation aimed at dismantling illegal mining activities.

"If it were zama-zamas, they were supposed to kill him a long time ago," the officer explained. “Marius used to chase zama-zamas alone until they reached the shaft. They don’t operate far from their territory; they would have finished him there.” He added that it is atypical for zama-zamas to pursue individuals to their homes, as they typically conduct their violent actions where they work.

In a poignant recount of his last conversation with Van der Merwe, the officer revealed that on the day he returned from testifying at the commission, he could sense his friend's unease. "He said he was okay, but I could hear he was shaking." The officer noted that Van der Merwe always carried a firearm, a testament to his awareness of the dangers associated with his role in combating crime.

Van der Merwe, affectionately known as “Vlam” and “Yster” for his bold and fiery spirit, had a reputation for confronting illegal operations with tenacity, operating even under the cover of darkness. The officer remarked, "He was not scared of them," reinforcing the belief that Van der Merwe was well aware of the risks, but also resolute in his pursuit of justice.

The officer further elaborated that Van der Merwe had closed several shafts that zama-zamas relied upon, making him a significant adversary in their operations. "We know they kill, but to spend time on finding out where he stayed, that is not zama-zama style,” he stated, emphasising the directness of their violent methods.

However, concerns emerge about the possible motives behind Van der Merwe's murder. The officer suggested that the slain witness had ongoing disputes with certain individuals in the private security sector and implied that he had “enemies” within law enforcement itself. “There are some people he was never comfortable working with,” he noted, speculating that Van der Merwe's isolation might stem from his distrust of those around him.

The ramifications of Van der Merwe's murder extend beyond merely a loss to a grieving family; it dilutes the foundations of justice and accountability that people like him courageously stand for. Speaking near Van der Merwe's home, ANC Ekurhuleni regional secretary Jongisizwe Dlabathi expressed deep concern over the emotional turmoil faced by Van der Merwe's family. He articulated that this slaying represents an attack on justice itself and an affront to the rule of law, positing a direct link between the killing and Van der Merwe's testimony at the commission.

Van der Merwe, a Brakpan security firm boss, had made serious allegations about the actions of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD).

Given the codename "Witness D" when making his submissions to the commission to protect his identity, Van der Merwe detailed in November how he was instructed to dispose of the body of a person who allegedly died after being tortured by police.

The security boss said he complied with the instruction out of fear, and he also implicated deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi, who testified before the commission this past week.

The investigation into his murder remains ongoing, sparking fears of widespread implications not only for the community but also for those who dare to stand against powerful criminals entrenched within society. As Brakpan mourns the loss of a champion for justice, calls for a thorough investigation are more urgent than ever.

IOS