Bail ruling pending for Julius Mkhwanazi and Kagiso Lerutla in corruption case

Suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi and Ekurhuleni city manager Kagiso Lerutla are expected to receive the outcome of their bail application at the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.

The pair face serious charges of corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice, linked to allegations that they orchestrated a court impersonation scheme and shared R400,000.

In his bail affidavit, Mkhwanazi denied wrongdoing and claimed his arrest was politically motivated, alleging it was aimed at derailing his anticipated bid for the position of police chief later this year. He told the court he has no intention of evading trial, arguing that the State’s case is weak and that he expects to be cleared during trial proceedings.

Mkhwanazi also cited financial and health considerations, noting that he risks forfeiting approximately R7 million in pension benefits if he absconds. He further revealed that he suffers from Type 2 diabetes and requires ongoing care. He has no prior convictions or pending cases and offered to pay a minimum of R10,000 for bail.

Lerutla, meanwhile, presented himself as a family man and primary breadwinner, telling the court his continued detention would place financial strain on his household. He earns over R200,000 per month and has significant financial commitments, including a R19,000 monthly bond.

A qualified chartered accountant, Lerutla is also awaiting results for a master’s degree in philosophy of accounting from the University of South Africa. He told the court he owns furniture valued at R400,000 and a BMW X5, and like his co-accused, has no prior convictions or protection orders against him. He indicated willingness to pay R20,000 bail.

However, the State is opposing their release, arguing that both men pose a risk of interfering with ongoing investigations and witnesses, and could potentially evade trial.

The magistrate’s ruling is expected to determine whether the two accused will remain in custody as the case proceeds.