Acting Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department head Julius Mkhwanazi faced serious misconduct allegations during his November 6, 2025, testimony at the Madlanga Commission. EMPD Chief Jabulani Isaac Mapiyeye accused Mkhwanazi of granting special privileges to businessman Vusimuzi Matlala, including unauthorized installation of emergency vehicle lighting systems on private automobiles. The testimony also detailed fifty-five irregular staff promotions allegedly executed without proper approval channels.
Mapiyeye stated these actions occurred primarily during his absence, with coordination from the former city manager. He described a pattern of bypassing established protocols, including signing memorandums of understanding with Matlala's security firms without required authorization. Commission evidence reportedly included digital communications showing Matlala requesting preferential treatment for associates during traffic enforcement incidents.
Mkhwanazi has denied all allegations, maintaining his decisions followed proper procedures and served legitimate crime prevention objectives. Municipal authorities defended public-private partnerships as standard security enhancement measures. The commission continues examining claims of systemic corruption and political influence within South African law enforcement structures. Matlala previously featured in investigations involving multi-million rand government contracts.
Mapiyeye stated these actions occurred primarily during his absence, with coordination from the former city manager. He described a pattern of bypassing established protocols, including signing memorandums of understanding with Matlala's security firms without required authorization. Commission evidence reportedly included digital communications showing Matlala requesting preferential treatment for associates during traffic enforcement incidents.
Mkhwanazi has denied all allegations, maintaining his decisions followed proper procedures and served legitimate crime prevention objectives. Municipal authorities defended public-private partnerships as standard security enhancement measures. The commission continues examining claims of systemic corruption and political influence within South African law enforcement structures. Matlala previously featured in investigations involving multi-million rand government contracts.
