Wiandre Pretorius (41), a police officer implicated in a 2022 suspect killing and named at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry into police misconduct, died from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot at an Astron petrol station in Brakpan, Gauteng.
Pretorius survived a hit last week. He was shot at 16 times on Thursday in what police are investigating as a possible hit after being named at the commission by Marius van der Merwe – also known as Witness D – who was assassinated in December last year. The Madlanga Commission has expressed concern following the Boksburg shooting, saying it is taking steps to protect individuals linked to its hearings. The incident occurred in front of his partner, Sergeant Juan Mare Eksteen—also referenced in commission proceedings—prompting a police probe amid public skepticism, with online reactions citing suspicions of foul play linked to “Witness D’s” prior slaying in the inquiry.
At the Madlanga Commission,Witness D – Marius van der Merwe named Pretorius in his testimony.
Gauteng police commissioner Tommy Mthombeni confirmed that Pretorius is not a member of the South African Police Service.
Following Van der Merwe’s assassination, the commission is assessing security risks for witnesses. Michaels said the commission had taken all necessary measures to ensure the safety of witnesses and staff.
Police have now confirmed an inquest docket has been registered.
