Community vows to fight for justice in murder of justice advocate Marius van der Merwe

The community and close friends of slain former Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department official, Marius van der Merwe has vowed to fight for the justice to be served against those responsible.

This was a rallying cry by those who came to pay their last respect to van der Merwe, who appeared last month at the Madlanga Commission under an alias, Witness D.

During the memorial, Samantha Labuschagne, a family friend, vowed that they would not rest until justice is served. “He was always on the frontline of community efforts to clean up illegal mining and other practices endangering our neighbourhood,” she stated passionately, reflecting a sentiment shared by many. “We will not stand still, as friends and family. We will pursue justice relentlessly for Marius.”

Calls for accountability echoed through the gathering, with Ashley Sauls, a Member of Parliament from the Patriotic Alliance, highlighting the urgent need for action in the wake of van der Merwe's death. “We must not allow their untimely deaths to deter us or instill fear within our communities. We must stand firm for what is right,” he urged, referencing the broader implications of such tragedies, including the recent killing of prominent media figure Warrick Stock, also known as DJ Warras.

Leanne van der Merwe, the widow of the late Marius van der Merwe, opened her heart during a memorial service held Wednesday for her husband, whose life was tragically cut short. Marius was a dedicated former reservist of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department and a fervent advocate against illegal mining. His assassination, occurring on the driveway of their Brakpan home shortly after 8 PM on December 5, has left an indelible mark on the community he served tirelessly.

“Where do I begin? Our story started online with you and the boys. I knew then that our lives would be fated,” Leanne expressed through a heartfelt letter read by the presiding pastors. Her words painted a picture of a love that endured the tests of time. “You were the love of my life. You left me with the most incredible children.”

Her message underscored the profound sense of loss felt not just by her, but by their four sons, who at such a young age, must grapple with the absence of their father—a man she described as their family’s superhero.

The circumstances surrounding van der Merwe’s assassination cast a shadow of uncertainty and speculation over the motives behind such a brutal act. Just weeks prior to his death, investigators revealed that he had sent a voice note indicating his determination to expose senior state actors involved in facilitating illegal mining a fight he was committed to until his untimely end.

As he bravely shared allegations during the Madlanga Commission, including distressing details regarding police misconduct, van der Merwe became a target, leading to the tragic events that unfolded.