Police identify three persons of interest in murder of Madlanga Commission witness

Police have identified three persons of interest in the murder investigation of Marius Van Der Merwe, a key witness at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

Mr Van Der Merwe, who appeared at the Commission last month under the pseudonym "Witness D," gave chilling testimony about alleged corruption within the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD).

He had alleged that he was asked to dispose of a body by suspended EMPD Chief Julius Mkhwanazi.

Van Der Merwe was tragically killed outside his home last Friday, reportedly in full view of his family.

At a media briefing on Monday, National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola confirmed that one of the persons of interest has been taken in for questioning.

"We are confident that soon we will register a breakthrough as police remain on high alert for those behind the killing of Mr. Van Der Merwe. Safe to say, investigations are on the right track," Commissioner Masemola stated.

Masemola also confirmed a coordinated effort to secure the safety of others involved in the high-profile inquiry:

"The NATJOINTS together with the Madlanga Commission has met and developed a plan to heighten and enhance security around officials and witnesses linked to the commission."