Julius Mkhwanazi arrested again as fresh R15m precious-stones case adds to earlier charges

According to IOL, suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department deputy chief Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi has been arrested three times in separate criminal investigations and is back in custody after being linked to an alleged precious-stones robbery worth nearly R15 million.

Latest arrest and court appearance

IOL reports that Mkhwanazi was arrested at his Ekurhuleni home on 17 July 2026. He and an officer identified in court as “Witness K” briefly appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court in relation to the precious-stones matter, and their bail hearing was postponed.

Previous arrests and bail payments

According to IOL, Mkhwanazi’s first arrest came in April 2026 on charges of fraud, corruption and defeating or obstructing the administration of justice; he was granted R30,000 bail in that matter.

IOL says he was arrested again in July 2026 on separate allegations of fraud, corruption and defeating the ends of justice and secured his release after paying R50,000 bail. The two bail payments total R80,000.

Precious-stones investigation

IOL reports investigators have linked Mkhwanazi to the alleged robbery of precious stones worth nearly R15 million. He remains in custody while preparing a formal bail application in that case.

Madlanga Commission scrutiny

According to IOL, Mkhwanazi has also been questioned before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry. Evidence leaders at the commission alleged he was involved in the unlawful registration of private vehicles as municipal vehicles vehicles said to have belonged to alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala enabling their use of blue lights and other official privileges.

IOL reports the commission has questioned aspects of Mkhwanazi’s testimony. Mkhwanazi has denied the allegations, and the commission has not made final findings.