Ekurhuleni municipal officials arrested amid widening corruption probe

Four current and former officials of the City of Ekurhuleni – EMPD Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, former city manager Imogen Mashazi, suspended legal services head Kemi Behari and suspended human resources head Linda Gxashekawere – were arrested overnight and will appear in court. The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Ekurhuleni called for urgent action, saying the municipality has prioritized protecting individuals over safeguarding its integrity and pledging to write to the mayoral speaker after the court hearing.

Law‑enforcement agencies have broadened the investigation beyond the initial targets, examining procurement processes, financial transactions and possible abuse of public resources. Sources say detectives are gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses, raising expectations that additional senior officials could face charges. The expanding probe is increasing political pressure on the municipality’s leadership and prompting calls for accountability and reforms.