The City of Ekurhuleni suspended Deputy Chief of Police Julius Mkhwanazi on 11 November 2025 following an internal audit investigating allegations of misconduct. After nearly ten months on suspension, Mkhwanazi was dismissed on 18 September 2026, as confirmed by city spokesperson Phakamile Mbengashe. The dismissal followed an internal disciplinary process that included input from Human Resources and evidence submitted before the Madlanga Commission.
“The suspension is an administrative measure intended to safeguard the integrity of the disciplinary process and should not be construed as a finding of guilt,” the City of Ekurhuleni stated in a press release at the time of suspension. The subsequent dismissal was made by city manager Kagiso Lerutla after receiving the report from the disciplinary committee.
Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has since denied claims that the municipality failed to act on the corruption allegations within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD). Speaking at a town hall in October 2026, Xhakaza emphasised the city’s commitment to rooting out corrupt officials: “What is important is that we need to clean our system and rid it of wrong elements.” He dismissed assertions that the city delayed or obstructed disciplinary processes.
Investigations heard by the Madlanga Commission have brought to light irregular agreements involving businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala and EMPD officials, including allegations surrounding misuse of red and blue emergency lights. However, the details and any official findings from these allegations remain unverified in public records.
The timeline of events shows the suspension in November 2025, followed by protracted disciplinary procedures culminating in dismissal in September 2026. Subsequent public scrutiny and political questioning led to reaffirmations by the mayor and municipal officials that lawful disciplinary and investigative steps were being followed.
Though this case originates in Ekurhuleni, it highlights broader challenges within South African policing and municipal governance structures, particularly related to accountability and integrity in law enforcement departments. The City of Ekurhuleni’s handling of the matter reflects tensions between swift public expectations for action against corruption and the legal requirements of due process.
Specific claims such as multiple arrests of Mkhwanazi during this period or deliberate blocking of disciplinary action by senior officials remain unconfirmed by independent sources. The matter continues to unfold through official channels and the Madlanga Commission’s inquisitorial processes.
Cape Flats readers should view this as an example of the ongoing national conversations around police accountability and governance rather than a local incident. The Cape Flats News author will continue monitoring developments related to the Madlanga Commission and any future official updates from Ekurhuleni authorities.