By Marcus Moloko
Police have made a breakthrough in the investigation into the killing of Marius van der Merwe, widely known as Witness D at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that a suspect believed to be the gunman was arrested in Johannesburg on Saturday.
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“The task team established to investigate cases emanating from the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry have registered their first breakthrough with the arrest of a suspect believed to be the shooter in the Marius van der Merwe murder case,” Mathe said.
Police also seized the vehicle allegedly used in the attack. Police say they have evidence linking the individual to the crime.
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Van der Merwe, nicknamed Vlam, was gunned down outside his home in Brakpan on the East Rand on 5 December 2025, shortly after returning home with his wife.
The suspect is expected to appear in the Brakpan Magistrates’ Court on Monday, where prosecutors will outline the charges.
