The arrest of Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi on charges of fraud, corruption, and defeating the ends of justice has triggered a political storm, with ActionSA demanding his immediate dismissal from the City of Ekurhuleni.
ActionSA Ekurhuleni mayoral candidate Xolani Khumalo said the city can no longer afford to retain officials facing such serious allegations, warning that continued employment would further damage public trust.
“Mkhwanazi has brought both the EMPD and the City of Ekurhuleni into disrepute. He has forfeited all credibility and cannot remain in the city's employ at taxpayers’ expense. The city manager must act without delay and terminate his employment,” Khumalo said.
Mkhwanazi was arrested by the South African Police Service’s (SAPS) Madlanga Task Team during an early morning operation at his residence in Gauteng on Saturday. Police confirmed he faces charges of fraud, corruption, and defeating or obstructing the ends of justice as part of an ongoing investigation into alleged corruption within the EMPD.
Authorities said the investigation remains active, with additional suspects linked to the case still being pursued.
The arrest comes amid intense scrutiny during proceedings linked to the Madlanga Commission, where Mkhwanazi’s testimony had already placed him under pressure after inconsistencies emerged in his version of events.
He was challenged over alleged involvement in serious criminal activity within a specialised EMPD unit accused of operating like a syndicate linked to kidnappings, extortion, hijackings, and murder allegations he has denied.
Commission proceedings also heard claims involving disputed operational accounts, missing records, and contradictory explanations regarding key incidents, including a fatal case involving a man who later died in custody. Questions were also raised over alleged improper influence, including claims of favours linked to blue-light authorisations and suspected links to criminal figures.
Mkhwanazi denied wrongdoing, while commissioners and evidence leaders repeatedly challenged the credibility of his testimony.
He is expected to appear before the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 20 April, as the corruption probe widens.
Khumalo welcomed the arrest but stressed that it must not be treated as an isolated step, insisting that accountability must follow immediately and without political delay.
“South Africa cannot afford to delay justice until the Commission concludes its proceedings while alleged offenders remain at large. Sufficient evidence already exists to initiate criminal proceedings against those implicated,” he said.
Meanwhile, police have confirmed the arrest of another senior Ekurhuleni municipal official in connection with the same investigation.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said the 40-year-old official was arrested in Johannesburg on Sunday morning.
“He faces the same charges of fraud, corruption, and defeating and/or obstructing the ends of justice,” Mathe said.
Both accused are expected to appear before the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, 20 April.
The Star
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