Ekurhuleni city manager Lerutla takes special leave amid fraud case

City of Ekurhuleni city manager Kagiso Lerutla has taken special leave amid a fraud case against him.

Lerutla was arrested at OR Tambo International Airport over the weekend.

The 40-year-old faces charges of fraud, corruption and defeating the ends of justice linked to a 2019 traffic-related case.

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He made his first appearance in the Boksburg Magistrates Court on Monday, alongside suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi.

In a statement, Ekurhuleni Mayor Doctor Xhakaza said he has noted the developments with serious concern, adding that the city will not comment further while the matter is before court.

The metro has also clarified that Lerutla’s special leave was taken voluntarily and not enforced by the executive.