EMPD
1Min
South Africa
Nov 11, 2025
The City of Ekurhuleni has suspended Deputy Chief of Police Julius Mkhwanazi following an internal audit probe into alleged misconduct, with formal disciplinary proceedings to follow. City Manager Kagiso Lerutla said the decision aligns with efforts to uphold clean governance amid serious allegations emerging from the Madlanga Commission.
The City of Ekurhuleni has on Tuesday confirmed the suspension of Deputy Chief of Police Julius Mkhwanazi, effective 11 November 2025. According to the City, the decision follows recommendations from an internal audit investigation into allegations of misconduct.
The suspension is described as an administrative step to protect the integrity of the disciplinary process and does not constitute a finding of guilt. Formal disciplinary proceedings will now proceed in accordance with labour laws and municipal regulations.
City Manager Kagiso Lerutla said the move comes as the municipality monitors serious allegations raised at the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Alleged Criminality, Political Interference and Corruption in the Criminal Justice System, also known as the Madlanga Commission.
“The testimony emerging from the Madlanga Commission is both shocking and deeply concerning. It points to systemic issues that this administration will not tolerate. We are unequivocally committed to clean governance, accountability, and restoring public trust in our municipality,” Lerutla said.
He added that the City had launched an immediate and independent internal investigation into new allegations of wrongdoing within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD). “We will act decisively on its findings, without fear or favour,” he said.
The City emphasised that the new investigation is separate from the audit that led to Mkhwanazi’s suspension. Its scope may expand to include any additional evidence or allegations arising from the Madlanga Commission proceedings.
Ekurhuleni leadership has reaffirmed its support and cooperation with the commission and assured residents that public safety operations and EMPD services remain fully functional. Interim leadership arrangements have been implemented to ensure stability and continuity within the department.
The City said it will not issue further comment while disciplinary and investigative processes are ongoing.
