UPDATED: City of Ekurhuleni responds to Julius Mkhwanazi’s firing - IOL

Suspended EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi has reportedly been fired amid corruption allegations and a court case linked to a murder.

Suspended EMPD Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi has been fired by the City of Ekurhuleni.

The decision was taken by City Manager Kagiso Lerutla after considering a detailed submission from the City’s Human Resources Department.

In a statement on Friday, the City said Mkhwanazi’s termination as Deputy Chief of Police: Operations and Specialised Services followed an internal disciplinary process, evidence presented before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry and the cumulative impact of criminal matters involving him on his employment relationship with the municipality.

The City said it considered several factors, including the seriousness of the matters, Mkhwanazi’s seniority within the EMPD, the connection between the allegations and his official duties, and the impact on the integrity and reputation of the municipality.

“The City further considered the repeated delays affecting the internal disciplinary proceedings, Mkhwanazi’s continued court appearances and incarceration, and the exceptional circumstances that made the continuation of the employment relationship untenable,” it said.

Mkhwanazi has been arrested at least five times following damning allegations from the Madlanga Commission. 

He is also currently before the courts in connection with the Emmanuel Mbense murder in 2022, in which he has denied any wrongdoing. 

Mkhwanazi’s troubles escalated after his suspension by the City of Ekurhuleni and the launch of disciplinary proceedings against him.

He faced 13 charges, including allegations of fraud, gross dishonesty and gross negligence linked to the controversial use and registration of vehicles associated with alleged underworld tycoon Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

His name also featured prominently at the Madlanga Commission, where evidence raised questions about his relationship with Matlala, the use of EMPD resources and alleged links between senior officials and private interests.

Commission evidence included claims that Mkhwanazi received money through companies linked to Matlala.

He also acknowledged that he had prayed for Matlala to secure a R360-million SAPS contract.

Other allegations heard by the commission included claims of an operation involving private individuals and EMPD resources, including vehicles fitted with blue lights.

He has been before the courts in connection with an alleged R14.9-million precious-stones theft and separately in the case involving the alleged murder of Mbense.

In the Mbense matter, prosecutors allege that Mkhwanazi and his co-accused were involved in the murder, robbery and alleged obstruction of justice.

The accused have challenged the State’s allegations.