By Johnathan Paoli
Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi has confirmed that Marius “Vlam” van der Merwe, known publicly as Witness D in the Madlanga Commission, declined state protection despite it being offered.
Van der Merwe, a Brakpan-based security industry figure and former metro police official, was assassinated on Friday evening, sending shockwaves through the country and prompting renewed scrutiny of South Africa’s witness protection regime.
Speaking during a media briefing on Saturday, Kubayi began by expressing condolences to the Van der Merwe family, acknowledging the gravity of the loss and the fear it has triggered among witnesses cooperating with the commission.
“We send our sincere condolences to the family of Mr. Marius van der Merwe, known as Vlam…..Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends during this difficult time,” Kubayi said.
She confirmed that Adv Sandile Khumalo, responsible for security at the Madlanga Commission, informed her that Van der Merwe had been offered protection, but declined, believing he
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