The City of Ekurhuleni has announced the suspension of its acting chief of police, Julius Mkhwanazi, effective Monday, November 11.

The suspension comes after the recommendations of an internal audit investigation into allegations of misconduct.
City spokesperson Phakamile Mbengashe said the suspension is an administrative measure designed to protect the integrity of ongoing disciplinary proceedings, stressing that it does not imply guilt.

“Formal disciplinary proceedings will now follow, in line with applicable labour laws and municipal regulations,” Mbengashe said.

He added that the action comes as city leadership closely monitors the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is probing alleged criminality, political interference, and corruption within South Africa’s criminal justice system.

Newly appointed City Manager Kagiso Lerutla described recent testimony before the commission as shocking and deeply concerning.
“It points to systemic issues that this administration will not tolerate,” Lerutla said.
“We are unequivocally committed to clean governance, accountability, and restoring public trust in the metro.”

Lerutla confirmed that the city has launched an independent internal investigation into fresh allegations of wrongdoing within EMPD.
“In line with municipal legislation and our clean governance mandate, we will act decisively on the findings, without fear or favour,” he added.
The city emphasised that this new broader internal probe is separate from the completed audit that prompted Mkhwanazi’s suspension, but said its scope may be expanded as new evidence emerges from the Madlanga Commission.

Mkhwanazi had been placed on special leave over allegations that he fitted ‘Cat’ Matlala’s private security vehicle with blue lights, among other things.
Mbengashe assured residents that public safety operations and EMPD services remain fully functional, with interim leadership structures in place to ensure stability and continuity.
He said the city will not issue further public comment at this stage to safeguard the integrity of the ongoing investigations.

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