Background
Former Ekurhuleni city manager Imogen Mashazi and suspended human‑resources manager Linda Gxasheka spent two nights in jail after being arrested on Wednesday. They were released on Friday evening when the Germiston Magistrates Court granted them bail.
Arrest and Bail
- The state initially opposed bail because it needed to verify the women’s home addresses.
- After investigators confirmed the addresses, the state withdrew its opposition.
- Each woman was granted bail of R 50,000.
Property Concerns
During the first court appearance on Thursday, the prosecution raised questions about several properties linked to the accused:
- Mashazi – homes reported in Meyersdal, Bedfordview, Waterfall, Sunward Park, a Brakpan estate, and a property in Mpumalanga. Her lawyer said many of these do not belong to her.
- Gxasheka – two houses in Gauteng and one in the Eastern Cape, with only one address verified at this time.
Allegations – The “Blue Light” Saga
The case stems from accusations that senior Ekurhuleni officials protected a police officer who installed blue lights on private luxury vehicles owned by businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
- Charge sheet: fraud, corruption, and defeating the ends of justice.
- Alleged scheme: Mashazi, former legal‑department head Kemi Behari, and Gxasheka allegedly worked together to shield EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi from disciplinary action.
- Benefit claimed: Behari and Gxasheka supposedly received salary increases that were never approved by council, totaling R 2.66 million over the 2023/24‑2025/26 financial years.
Denials from the Accused
- Imogen Mashazi told the Madlanga Commission in December last year that she was “far removed” from the disciplinary process and did not intervene to stop Mkhwanazi’s investigation.
- Kemi Behari said the bribery allegations are false and unfounded.
- Linda Gxasheka has not made a public statement but her legal team maintains her innocence.
What Happens Next?
- The four accused will appear again for further hearings.
- Investigations will continue into the alleged illegal salary payments and the blue‑light incident.
- If convicted, they could face fines, restitution, or imprisonment.
Conclusion
The bail decision allows Mashazi and Gxasheka to return home while the legal process moves forward. The case highlights ongoing concerns about accountability and transparency in municipal leadership, and the outcome will be watched closely by both the public and oversight bodies.
