This week the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry heard testimony, highlighting alleged procedural irregularities and operational challenges within the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD), with senior officials under review.

Testimony focused on claims that suspended EMPD deputy chief Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi authorised a memorandum of understanding with CAT VIP Protection, a private security company linked to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, providing access to policing-related services.

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Witnesses said the draft was presented as an official municipal agreement and included arrangements for blue-light usage on certain vehicles.

Former EMPD Deputy Police Commissioner Revo Spies said he raised concerns about the document and conducted internal verification checks after seven vehicles were listed.

He described the agreement as being under Mkhwanazi’s authority and as an ongoing working relationship with CAT VIP.

Former HR head Xolani Nciza told the Commission that city officials, including former city manager Dr Imogen Mashazi, were involved in facilitating access and agreements within the municipality.

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Witnesses also discussed challenges in reporting and investigating irregularities.

Earlier this week, Ald Jaco Terblanche, the DA’s Ekurhuleni spokesperson for community safety, said the testimonies highlighted operational and administrative concerns that had been raised by the party over several years.

“Several issues discussed at the Commission align with longstanding concerns raised including the disputed CAT VIP blue-light arrangements, the implementation of recommendations from the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID), the vetting of EMPD personnel and reports of unlawful activity within the department,” said Terblanche.

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EMPD spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Kelebogile Thepa testified on November 14 that a media enquiry into the “blue light scandal” affected her role.

She said an Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) official informed her that Mkhwanazi had questioned her conduct after she assisted investigators.

Thepa also described an incident in July 2023 when she and a neighbour were approached by three armed individuals seeking information from her phone and vehicle.

Mkhwanazi remains on special leave pending review of procedural matters related to CAT VIP.

Council received an internal misconduct report on October 30, but has not yet confirmed whether disciplinary action will follow.

Ekurhuleni mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza said the matter is being handled according to established labour procedures, with a statement to be issued once the process is complete.