Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi: The Controversy Surrounding Ekurhuleni’s Deputy Police Chief

Who Is Julius Mkhwanazi?

Julius Mkhwanazi joined the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) in 2003. Over the years he worked his way up to become deputy chief, a role that puts him in charge of many officers and operations across the city.

Why Is He in the News?

Since late 2025 Mkhwanazi has been dealing with several serious legal problems:

Suspension by the City

On 11 November 2025 the City of Ekurhuleni suspended him after an internal audit flagged possible misconduct. The city said it was watching closely as allegations emerged from a special inquiry.

Arrest by IPID

In mid‑2026 the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) arrested him for allegedly masterminding a fake 2023 police raid on a Johannesburg apartment. The raid was said to be a cover for stealing sugilite and manganese stones worth about R14.9 million.

His former girlfriend, a Johannesburg Metro Police inspector (referred to as Witness K), told the Madlanga Commission that she saw him plan the operation. Mkhwanazi denies the claim.

He was released on R5 000 bail on 21 July 2026, with the case set for hearing on 25 August 2026.

Other Criminal Charges

Mkhwanazi also faces:

• Fraud, corruption and defeating the ends of justice together with Ekurhuleni’s city manager, Kagiso Lerutla. They are accused of paying R400 000 to someone who pretended to be Lerutla in court over a speeding ticket. During that arrest an illegal firearm was found on him; he got R30 000 bail.
• A separate fraud and corruption case involving former municipal manager Imogen Mashazi. He is said to have helped arrange a deal that let police blue lights be placed on the private cars of an alleged crime boss. He received R50 000 bail for this matter in July 2026.

What Does His Legal Team Say?

Through his lawyers at Sarlie and Associates Incorporated, Mkhwanazi insists:

• He is innocent until proven guilty.
• Stepping aside now would be unfair and would give his “detractors” what they want.
• The accusations are driven by political rivals who want to block his ambition to become EMPD chief.
• He believes the evidence against him is weak and that he will be fully cleared in court.

The lawyers also note that he voluntarily took special leave before any formal disciplinary or criminal process began.

Public and Political Reaction

Calls for Him to Step Down

Several groups, including the political party ActionSA in Ekurhuleni, have demanded that his contract be terminated immediately. They argue that a senior officer facing criminal charges should not remain in a position of trust.

Expert Opinion

Criminologist Professor Mpho Matlala told IOL that the public’s frustration is understandable. He said:

• Even if the charges do not prove he cannot do his job, they have damaged his reputation.
• A person in his role should be “beyond reproach.”
• If the internal disciplinary process finds him guilty, dismissal would be appropriate.
• Keeping him could harm the city’s image and cause political fallout.
• Due process must be followed; otherwise the city risks unfair labour practices.

Matlala added that stepping aside would be honourable, but rebuilding public trust would require broader institutional reform.

Civil Society Stance

The Activists and Citizens Forum insist that anyone criminally charged should be fired, not just suspended. Spokesperson Dennis Bloem said institutions must show zero tolerance for wrongdoing.

What Happens Next?

Mkhwanazi still faces two pending disciplinary hearings within EMPD. If those hearings find him guilty, the municipality could seek dismissal as part of the penalty. Until then, discussions about his future position are on hold.

The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry continues to investigate the allegations, and the courts will decide the criminal cases.

Conclusion

The case of Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi highlights the tension between legal presumption of innocence and public demand for accountability in law‑enforcement leadership. While his lawyers argue the charges are politically motivated and maintain his innocence, experts and community groups stress that serious allegations against a senior police officer undermine trust and may warrant removal if proven. The outcome of the disciplinary and criminal processes will determine whether Mkhwanazi returns to his role, faces dismissal, or leaves the EMPD through other means. Whatever the result, the situation serves as a reminder that transparency, due process, and efforts to rebuild public confidence are essential for any police department serving a community.