Julius Mkhwanazi faces corruption charges in ‘blue lights saga’

Julius Mkhwanazi, the suspended deputy chief of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD), appeared at the Germiston Magistrates’ Court facing charges of corruption, fraud, and defeating the ends of justice. This marks Mkhwanazi’s fifth arrest warrant in relation to the investigation known as the ‘blue lights saga’.

The case involves allegations that Mkhwanazi and EMPD fleet manager Christ Steyn facilitated the registration of several private luxury vehicles belonging to Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala’s security company, CAT VIP Protection, as municipal assets. Investigators allege that four of these vehicles were irregularly fitted with blue lights and sirens.

Mkhwanazi has denied all allegations, with his legal counsel stating that the charges are a ‘political ploy’ orchestrated to prevent him from being appointed as the EMPD chief when the position becomes vacant later this year. The National Prosecution Authority alleges Mkhwanazi received R70,000 from companies linked to Matlala in connection with these activities.