Overview of the Allegations
Suspended EMPD acting chief Julius Mkhwanazi is facing serious accusations that he directed officers under his command to carry out an armed robbery targeting precious stones and other valuables. The claims surfaced during a public inquiry led by the Madlanga Commission, which is examining whether the February 2023 incident was a rogue operation or part of a larger pattern of abuse within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department.
Testimony Before the Madlanga Commission
During his appearance on Thursday, Mkhwanazi denied ever giving an order to commit robbery. He told commissioners that he never instructed officers such as Keisha Leigh‑Stols and Aiden McKenzie to break into a residence in Rosebank.
“I did not give any instruction to commit any robbery,” he said, insisting on his innocence despite persistent questioning.
The commission, however, presented evidence that painted a different picture.
Commission’s Findings
- CCTV Contradiction – Co‑commissioner Adv. Sandile Khumalo pointed out that Mkhwanazi failed to mention his presence at the Rosebank property until investigators showed him footage of a white vehicle parked outside the scene.
- Selective Disclosure – After being confronted with the video, Mkhwanazi first admitted the omission, then later claimed he was not there, before suggesting he may have “limited” the information he shared.
- Pattern of Misleading Statements – Khumalo noted similar inconsistencies in the testimonies of Leigh‑Stols and McKenzie, raising concerns that the three officers might be coordinating their accounts to protect one another.
Contradictions and Questions
Khumalo went further, questioning the legality of the operation itself:
“To me, it looks like you tasked them to go commit an armed robbery at somebody’s house.”
The alleged theft involved precious stones and lithium worth roughly R14.9 million, plus cigarettes, cash, and medical supplies valued at about R220 000 in total.
Advocate Mahlape Sello, leading the evidence, accused Mkhwanazi of fabricating a “joint operation” narrative three years after the raid to legitimize the officers’ actions. She argued that no one had previously described the incident as a joint effort and that Mkhwanazi invoked the name of a deceased officer who cannot defend himself.
Mkhwanazi rejected these claims, insisting that fellow officers would back his version and reiterating that he had no role in any criminal conduct. He also said he wants answers about the missing items, just like anyone else.
Broader Implications for EMPD
The commission heard that no formal criminal complaint authorized the Rosebank raid, raising doubts about whether the operation was sanctioned or a rogue venture. Investigators are now probing whether this case reflects isolated misconduct or signals a wider problem of power abuse within the EMPD.
Conclusion
The testimony of Julius Mkhwanazi has intensified scrutiny over the February 2023 raid. While he maintains his innocence and denies issuing any robbery orders, the commission’s evidence—particularly the CCTV footage and conflicting statements—suggests a more complicated scenario. As the inquiry continues, the focus will remain on determining whether the incident was an isolated abuse of authority or indicative of deeper systemic issues within the department. The outcome could have lasting effects on how the EMPD oversees its units and ensures accountability for its officers.
