Mkhwanazi to face Madlanga Commission over blue lights, bribes and stolen gems

According to IOL, suspended EMPD Chief, Commissioner Julius Mkhwanazi will appear at the Madlanga Commission on Wednesday to answer questions about alleged corruption, including bribes for blue lights, the theft of precious stones and unauthorised memorandums of understanding.

What the commission will examine

According to IOL, the commission’s widening inquiry follows testimony from Witness K, a former EMPD inspector and Mkhwanazi’s ex-girlfriend, who implicated him in alleged unlawful activities involving police officials and private security operators.

Central to the probe is a 2023 operation in Rosebank that, according to IOL, allegedly resulted in the theft of precious stones valued at R14.9 million. CCTV footage presented to the commission reportedly places several of Mkhwanazi’s senior subordinates, including Kersha-Leigh Stols and Aiden McKenzie, at the scene alongside private security personnel.

Admissions and denials

According to IOL, Mkhwanazi initially described the Rosebank action as part of a legitimate joint task team. The commission heard that, under questioning, he later admitted there was no official authorisation, documentation or operational approval for the raid.

Alleged ties to a crime boss and blue-light access

According to IOL, the commission has heard allegations that Mkhwanazi drafted unauthorised Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) that benefited underworld tycoon Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. Evidence further suggested Matlala’s private security vehicles were registered as municipal vehicles, allegedly granting access to blue lights, sirens and other state resources, according to IOL.

Where things stand

According to IOL, while Mkhwanazi has admitted some allegations and rejected others, he is due to give testimony at the Madlanga Commission on Wednesday.

Why the inquiry matters

The hearings are part of what IOL describes as a wider investigation into alleged criminality within the EMPD. The commission has been examining messages, voice notes and video footage related to the claims.