Deputy Police Minister Polly Boshielo has issued a firm warning that the killings of state witnesses and police officers will not be tolerated, describing the assassination of crime analyst Marius van der Merwe as “treasonous.”
Van der Merwe, who testified as “Witness D” at the Madlanga Commission, was ambushed and murdered outside his home on Friday in front of his family.
“We cannot allow this to go on. We are not going to take it lightly. We have to send a strong message,” Boshielo said.
The Deputy Minister also criticised certain media outlets for revealing Van der Merwe’s identity shortly after his death, calling the disclosure “deeply unfortunate.” She noted that some witnesses had been offered protection but declined.
Boshielo is expected to meet with senior SAPS leadership this week, where the recent spate of targeted killings will be a key focus.