By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider
A witness by the name of Marius van der Merwe ,who testified at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, was shot dead in his home in Brakpan last week Friday, and the National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola is confident about a breakthrough in the investigation.
The police have identified three suspects as well as a car found in Alexandra that the authorities believe is the vehicle used to commit the murder.
Although it is still uncertain that his death is linked to his appearance at Madlanga Commission, there is still caution thrown around as to how the commission would like to move forward in terms of providing optimum security for the witnesses that testify at the commission.
The police aim to intensify their witness protection as well as do their best to put a stop to the growing criminal networks in South Africa. The National Joint Operational & Intelligence Structure (Natjoints) in tandem with the commission will move to bolster security for the safety of witnesses and the relevant officials.
Masemola also highlighted that the police force will move to engage in heavy operation during the festive season. He highlighted that 113,727 arrests have been made since October 13 including 33,505 people wanted for violent crimes and a further 18,600 suspects were arrested for being in possession of drugs.
The National Police Commissioner cites alcohol and drugs as main catalysts for perpetrating violent crimes. Meanwhile, a man who was tortured, murdered and dumped in a dam three years ago by the name of Emmanuel Mbense, has his family asking for justice for his murder as the matter was brought to light at the Madlanga Commission.
The family has even approached Afriforum’s Private Prosecution Unit as a way to receive justice for Mbense. Mbense was found at the Duduza Dam in Nigel, as the authorities found his keys and driver’s license in his pocket.
“The truth only started to surface before the commission. It has forced us to relive the horror of his final moments in public, surrounded by strangers. Receiving such devastating news at the same time as everyone else has been very painful. It has stripped away any chance for us to prepare ourselves emotionally. We were re-traumatised again as the details unfold” said the brother of Emmanuel Mbense, Nhlanhla.