EMPD Chief Mkhwanazi shielded despite IPID fraud report

The Madlanga Judicial Commission of Inquiry has been told that Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi, acting chief of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD), was shielded by senior municipal officials despite damning findings by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).

According to testimony, Mkhwanazi allegedly forged and presented a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to grant policing powers and other privileges to Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s private security company, CAT VIP Security — a document that internal witnesses say was never formally approved.

Former HR head Xolani Nciza told the commission that city manager Dr Imogen Mashazi ordered him to “leave Mkhwanazi alone” and blocked efforts to extend his suspension over an illegal blue-lights scandal involving Matlala’s vehicles.

Details emerged of a scheme where private vehicles linked to Matlala’s companies were illegally fitted with blue lights, and their ownership registered in municipal systems — effectively disguising them as part of EMPD’s official fleet.

Nciza also accused two other top officials, Linda Gxasheka (HR) and Advocate Kemi Behari (Legal), of receiving large salary increases after aligning with Mashazi’s protection of Mkhwanazi.

Despite IPID’s 2023 report recommending disciplinary action for fraud and possible prosecution, internal processes were reportedly blocked. According to suspended EMPD Chief Jabulani Mapiyeye, the case was never properly escalated after interference from top management.

Mkhwanazi, now on special leave, denies wrongdoing, insisting his actions were lawful.