A man who was named during testimony at a major police corruption inquiry has survived a shooting attack in South Africa. The incident has raised fresh concerns about the safety of people connected to the ongoing investigation. Wiandre Pretorius escaped without injuries after gunmen opened fire on his vehicle outside his home in Boksburg on Thursday morning.
The attack happened around 9:25 am in Van Dyk Park, Ekurhuleni. Pretorius was about to enter his home when three unknown attackers in a white Toyota Vitz started shooting. Police say at least 16 bullets hit his vehicle. The gunmen then drove away quickly from the scene. Despite the intensity of the attack, Pretorius managed to escape unharmed.
Shortly after the shooting, Pretorius sent a voice note calling for help. In the recording, he explained that armed men had tried to kill him or hijack his vehicle. His bakkie was badly damaged in the attack, but he survived. Police have confirmed that nothing was stolen during the incident. This has led investigators to believe it was a targeted attack rather than a simple robbery.
Gauteng police have opened an attempted murder case. They are working to find out who carried out the attack and why. Police Commissioner Tommy Mthombeni visited the crime scene. He confirmed that the victim’s vehicle would be examined carefully for clues. Investigators collected bullet casings and other evidence that might help identify the shooters.
The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry confirmed it was informed about the attack. The commission is investigating allegations of corruption and criminal networks within law enforcement structures. Commission spokesperson Jeremy Michaels expressed concern about witness safety. He noted that Pretorius had not approached the commission for information or protection assistance. However, the commission remains worried about all individuals linked to its work.
Pretorius was named by Marius van der Merwe during testimony at the commission. Van der Merwe, who testified as “Witness D,” implicated Pretorius in the 2022 death of Emmanuel Mbhense. According to testimony, Mbhense was tortured during an unauthorized operation in Brakpan. His body was later dumped in a lake near Germiston. These allegations are still under investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate.
The case has been submitted to the National Director of Public Prosecutions for a decision. Gauteng Police Commissioner confirmed that Pretorius is not a member of the South African Police Service. This contradicts claims made during the commission hearings. The truth about these allegations is still being investigated.
The attack on Pretorius is not an isolated incident. Marius van der Merwe himself was shot and killed outside his Brakpan home in December 2025. He was assassinated after giving testimony about alleged police corruption and criminal networks. His death shocked the nation and raised serious questions about witness protection. Van der Merwe had been offered entry into the official witness protection program but declined the offer before his death.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for improved witness protection measures. Speaking after the attack on Pretorius, he stressed that witnesses in high-profile cases must be better secured. “Witnesses in high-profile cases should not be identifiable and must be better protected,” Ramaphosa said. He emphasized that keeping witness identities confidential is crucial for their safety.
The Madlanga Commission has held meetings with the National Joint Operational and Intelligence Structure to assess security risks. They are taking steps to protect individuals linked to the hearings. The commission has urged anyone with information to come forward. They have assured potential witnesses that their safety is a priority.
Police investigations are continuing. National police commissioner Fannie Masemola revealed that three persons of interest are being questioned about the murder of Witness D. Authorities are also examining whether the recent shootings are connected. So far, police say they have not found clear links between the separate incidents involving people connected to the commission.
The situation remains tense as the investigation continues. Many are calling for stronger witness protection to ensure that those who speak out against corruption can do so safely. The Madlanga Commission’s work is considered crucial for cleaning up law enforcement agencies. However, the violence targeting those linked to the inquiry threatens to silence potential witnesses.
