NPA probing whether Julius Mkhwanazi is authorised to have live ammunition

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has approached the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) to find out whether its suspended deputy chief, Julius Mkhwanazi, was authorised to have live ammunition.

Mkhwanazi was arrested at the weekend after being found with a large quantity of ammunition at his home, despite being on full suspension.

He appeared before the Boksburg Magistrates Court on Monday, alongside Ekurhuleni city manager Kagiso Lerutla, facing charges of fraud, corruption, and defeating the ends of justice.

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According to the State’s charge sheet, Mkhwanazi is accused of assisting Lerutla to manipulate a 2019 speeding case in a bid to prevent Lerutla from appearing in court.

Mkhwanazi was placed on full suspension in November 2025, following corruption allegations that surfaced during the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.

While he continues to receive his monthly salary during his full suspension, he is required to return all EMPD-issued equipment to the metro.

Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said it's concerning that Mkhwanazi still had a large amount of live ammunition at his home, even though he was asked to return everything.

“We can confirm that Julius Mkhwanazi was found with more than 100 9mm rounds of ammunition as well as 15 R5 live ammunition. Our team is still consulting with the EMPD to determine whether he was meant to be in possession of the live ammunition.”

While Mkhwanazi’s arrest is in no way linked to the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, he’s expected to soon return to the hot seat.

Mkhwanazi is still being questioned at the commission about his role in facilitating fraudulent agreements between the EMPD and companies linked to alleged crime boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.