South Africans have started a BackaBuddy campaign to raise funds for the family of Marius van der Merwe, also known as “Witness D” in the Madlanga Commission.

The former Ekhuruleni Metro Police officer, who later opened his own private security business, was shot and killed in an assassination earlier this month.

Van der Merwe has been hailed a “national hero” over his whistleblower testimony about police corruption.

MARIUS VAN DER MERWE BACKABUDDY CAMPAIGN

This week, Marius van der Merwe’s loved ones officially launched a BackaBuddy campaign to financially support his family.

The former metropoliceman leaves behind a wife and two sons. His family were present when he was gunned down outside his Brakpan home on 5 December.

His death is believed to be an assassination after he testified under the alias “Witness D” in the Madlanga Commission last month. 

The BackaBudddy campaign reads: “Within his community, he is hailed a hero for his fight against ‘Zama-zamas’ and the removal of Plastic City that has tainted the town and residence of Brakpan for many years. Marius was brave, resilient, and always remained hopeful in all circumstances. Marius was a selfless man who did everything he could for his family and community.

As the family’s breadwinner, Marius van der Merwe’s family are feeling the financial strain, especially amid the festive season.

“The family no longer have their main source of income and will require assistance with school uniforms, stationery, medical costs, and day-to-day expenses”.

The campaign has currently raised R40 000 out of its R100 000 goal.

‘HOW DO I SAY GOODBYE?’

On her TikTok account, Marius van der Merwe’s widow Leanne shared her heartbreak over her husband’s death.

The mother of two shared a video montage of her husband out and about with his family.

“How do I say goodbye? How do I carry on, never seeing you again?

She added, “I love you forever, babe.”

@_lea_gray_ollie How do I say goodbye? How do I carry on never seeing you again? 😭😭😭😭😭😭 I love you forever babe, always!! #QRFtaskteam #vlam #marius ♬ som original – maya🤍