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Blue-Light Scandal and Irregular Promotions Engulf Ekurhuleni Police Chief
A City Under Scrutiny
The Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) has once again been thrust into the spotlight, this time over serious allegations against its acting chief, Julius Mkhwanazi. What began as whispers of favouritism has now escalated into claims of abuse of authority, irregular appointments, and an alleged blue-light scandal involving a controversial businessman.
The revelations came during testimony before the Madlanga Commission, where current EMPD Chief Isaac Mapiyeye accused Mkhwanazi of “brazenly disregarding” his authority and turning the department into what he described as a personal power base.
According to Mapiyeye, between May and July 2024, Mkhwanazi allegedly fast-tracked 55 promotions and appointments while serving as acting chief, often without following due process or consulting his superiors. Many of these appointments reportedly went to individuals from divisions he had previously overseen, with several positions filled without public advertisement.
The Blue-Light Connection
Beyond the internal promotions scandal, Mkhwanazi is also facing scrutiny over alleged ties to businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, who has long been a subject of controversy in local security circles.
During an earlier hearing, KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lt-Gen. Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi testified that Julius Mkhwanazi had allegedly registered vehicles belonging to Matlala under the Ekurhuleni Municipality’s name. These vehicles were reportedly fitted with illegal blue lights, a privilege reserved exclusively for law enforcement.
The allegation raises serious questions about the use of municipal resources and whether political or business interests were granted access to policing privileges meant for official use.
Internal Fallout and Denials
Mapiyeye told the commission that many of the appointments were made while he was on leave or unavailable and that his written objections were ignored by both the acting chief and the then-city manager, Dr Imogen Mashazi. He further accused Mashazi of supporting the irregular recruitment processes and of undermining his role as EMPD Chief.
“When I returned to the office, I found key personnel changes had already been made,” Mapiyeye said. “My protestations were ignored.”
In one instance, he claimed that even a deputy chief’s contract extension was pushed through without his knowledge, despite his own efforts to fill the role through formal recruitment.
Mkhwanazi, meanwhile, has rejected the allegations, describing them as “misinformation.” He maintains that all appointments and partnerships were handled lawfully and that no wrongdoing occurred.
The Ekurhuleni Municipality has echoed his defence, insisting that its collaborations with private security companies, including Matlala’s, form part of its broader crime prevention strategy.
What Happens Next
Julius Mkhwanazi has been placed on special leave pending the outcome of the investigation. The Madlanga Commission will continue to hear evidence from EMPD officials, municipal executives, and human resources staff in the coming weeks.
If proven, the allegations could mark one of the most significant accountability cases in Ekurhuleni’s recent history, exposing deep fractures between political leadership, city management, and law enforcement.
For residents, the controversy cuts deeper than internal politics. It highlights the growing public frustration with how power and privilege can sometimes blur the lines between public service and personal interest.
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: EWN
