Top Ekurhuleni cop promoted to EMPD deputy chief despite being probed for fraud
It's understood Julius Mkhwanazi was appointed in December, despite IPID recommending disciplinary action against him after it emerged that he was involved in fraudulent activities.
Picture: Facebook/Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department
JOHANNESBURG - A top metro police officer in Ekurhuleni who is under investigation for allegedly dishing out blue lights to his friends has been promoted to serve as the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department’s (EMPD) deputy chief.
Julius Mkhwanazi was suspended in 2023 after it emerged that he was involved in dodgy deals and fraudulent activities.
It's understood he was appointed to his new position in December, despite the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) recommending disciplinary action against him.
City spokesperson, Zweli Dlamini, confirmed Mkhwanazi's appointment to Eyewitness News and said he was recommended as the most suitable candidate for the job.
Mkhwanazi's investigation reportedly started after his partner was seen on social media flaunting blue lights fitted on her personal car.
A well-placed source told Eyewitness News that thousands were spent on his probe, but no action was taken against him since.
The City of Ekurhuleni said investigations against the brigadier were almost complete, and the process would move forward thereafter.
However, a Democratic Alliance (DA) councillor in the city, Jaco Terblanche, questioned Mkhwanazi's appointment, saying it made no sense to promote someone accused of fraud.
"My concern, firstly, is that this is irregular. Secondly, how can you promote somebody if you've got an IPID recommendation for an investigation?"
He believes Mkhwanazi's investigation will end up being abandoned.