Fourth arrest of suspended EMPD deputy chief prompts Ekurhuleni response
Following the fourth arrest of suspended EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi, the City of Ekurhuleni says it is reviewing the latest allegations while disciplinary and criminal processes continue independently.
The City of Ekurhuleni has reaffirmed its commitment to due process following the fourth arrest of suspended EMPD Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, stressing that while the allegations are serious, all actions must remain within the bounds of the law.
Mkhwanazi was recently arrested in connection with the alleged murder of Emmanuel Mbense and defeating the ends of justice.
The city confirmed it has taken note of the latest developments and acknowledged the gravity of the charges, particularly given Mkhwanazi’s senior position within law enforcement.
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Despite mounting public concern, the city emphasised that Mkhwanazi remains on full suspension and holds no operational or command responsibilities within the EMPD.
City’s head of department for communication, marketing, and tourism, Phakamile Mbengashe, said officials are currently reviewing the details of the latest charges to determine whether they fall within the scope of the existing disciplinary case or require amendments to the charge sheet.
“The current charge sheet contains three charges, and the hearing is underway, having resumed during July 2026. The city is assessing the latest arrest and any supporting evidence to determine whether the allegations are already covered by the existing charges or whether the charge sheet must be supplemented,” explained Mbengashe.
The City also clarified why Mkhwanazi continues to receive a full salary during his suspension.
According to the City, labour laws and collective bargaining agreements require that employees on full suspension remain on full pay until the disciplinary process is concluded.
“Cutting his salary without due process, the city warned, could constitute an unfair labour practice and expose the municipality to legal and financial risks.
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“The continued payment should not be interpreted as support for the employee or indifference to the allegations. It is a legal obligation while the disciplinary process remains underway. The City recognises the legitimate concern of residents and taxpayers and is taking steps to ensure that the disciplinary hearing proceeds without avoidable delay,” said Phakamile.
He said a formal disciplinary hearing is already in progress, operating independently from the criminal case. The City confirmed that the process resumed in July 2026 and currently includes three charges, with the possibility of additional charges should new evidence arise.
Addressing calls for Mkhwanazi’s immediate dismissal, the City said it cannot terminate employment solely based on arrests.
Instead, misconduct must be proven through a fair and evidence-based process. “There is no numerical threshold at which arrests automatically result in dismissal, highlighting that arrests do not equate to findings of guilt,” explained Mbhengashe.
However, he said the city acknowledges that repeated arrests involving a senior law enforcement officer have significantly damaged public trust.
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The city is conducting ongoing risk and reputational assessments, while also cooperating with oversight bodies such as the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), the SAPS and other authorities. To mitigate risks, interim leadership arrangements have been put in place within the EMPD, while broader investigations into allegations within the department are also underway.
The city further stated that restoring public confidence will require more than communication. It committed to transparent governance, credible investigations, and decisive action where wrongdoing is proven.
While no specific timeline has been set for the conclusion of the disciplinary process, the city has pledged to prioritise the matter, minimise delays, and implement the appropriate outcome once proceedings are finalised.
“The city will act on the outcome in accordance with the law,” said Mbhengashe, reiterating that no employee is above the law, but that accountability must be both decisive and legally sound.
As the case unfolds, residents continue to demand swift action, placing increasing pressure on the City to balance legal obligations with public expectations for accountability and ethical leadership.
