Future of EMPD's Julius Mkhwanazi remains uncertain

The future of acting Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) head Julius Mkhwanaz remains uncertain as he stands accused of using his policing powers to benefit tender tycoon and alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matalala.

Mkhwanazi, who last week requested to be placed on a leave of absence following allegations of links between him and Matalala, has for the second time been named in the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

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On Monday, Crime Intelligence boss Dumisani Khumalo named five officials, Mkhwanazi being one, who had communicated with Matalala.

This, after police extracted messages from Matalala's WhatsApp upon confiscating his phone following a raid at his premises in December.

Mkhwanazi stands accused of registering a fleet of vehicles linked to Matalala’s private security firm, Cat VIP Protection, with the City of Ekurhuleni in 2023.

He is also accused of fitting Matalala’s vehicles with blue lights, allowing him illegal policing privileges.

But while the City of Ekurhuleni mulls over the decision on Mkhwanazi's future, evidence presented to the Madlanga Commission may just speed up that process.

Khumalo claims to have proof of messages between Matalala and Mkhwanazi, who has publicly refuted claims that he assisted Matalala in any form.

"Alongside Mr Matalala’s unlawful influence over affairs of SAPS [South African Police Service], he has a relationship with Mr Mkhwanazi which involves the abuse of EMPD for the benefit of Mr Matalala."

Last week, Ekurhuleni's council rejected a motion to suspend Mkhwanazi.