Ekurhuleni fires EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi

The City of Ekurhuleni has dismissed Julius Mkhwanazi, the former deputy chief of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD), following a disciplinary process. Mkhwanazi had been suspended since November 2023 following an internal audit that raised allegations of misconduct.

The dismissal follows allegations that Mkhwanazi unlawfully authorized the installation of blue emergency lights on private vehicles associated with businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. Mkhwanazi has denied any wrongdoing regarding these allegations.

In addition to the disciplinary action, Mkhwanazi faces several criminal charges. He remains in custody after being denied bail in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court in connection with the murder of businessman Emmanuel Mbense. He and five co-accused face charges of murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, and obstructing the administration of justice.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has welcomed the dismissal, stating that the move is a necessary step toward strengthening policing and restoring integrity within law enforcement agencies like the EMPD and the South African Police Service (SAPS).