Suspended EMPD Chief Mapiyeye has accused members of the Ekurhuleni Council of interfering in metro policing affairs. The explosive claims surfaced during his testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on 6 November 2025.
Key Allegation: Political Meddling in Policing
Isaac Mapiyeye stated that council members were politically meddling in the operations of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD). His comments put a spotlight on tensions between the political leadership and the operational command of metro policing in Gauteng.
“Members of the Ekurhuleni council [were] politically meddling in policing matters,” said Mapiyeye during his testimony.
Mapiyeye’s claims mark a significant escalation in the governance dispute following his precautionary suspension in late 2024 over sexual misconduct allegations.
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Fraudulent MOUs Linked to Tender Tycoon
During his testimony, Mapiyeye accused senior EMPD official Julius Mkhwanazi of signing fraudulent Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs). These MOUs were reportedly forged and linked to companies owned by controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
The illegal agreements allowed Matlala to operate with impunity within Ekurhuleni in exchange for providing resources to the EMPD.
“The agreements essentially allowed Matlala to operate with impunity within the city,” said Mapiyeye.
This suggests a breakdown in procurement governance and raises concerns about tender irregularities within metro policing.
Role of Former City Manager Under Scrutiny
Mapiyeye also accused former City Manager Imogen Mashazi of siding with Mkhwanazi and overriding his authority as Chief of Police. He highlighted a pattern of political interference that, in his view, compromised operational independence.
The involvement of a senior administrative figure adds weight to claims of executive overreach in police affairs.
IPID Findings Ignored, Says EMPD Chief Mapiyeye
A case of corruption was opened in 2023 against Mkhwanazi after blue lights were allegedly installed in Matlala’s private security vehicles. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) found Mkhwanazi guilty of misconduct.
However, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has yet to act.
“I tried on numerous occasions to try to access that office of the DPP but I could not get any joy,” Mapiyeye said.
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The lack of prosecutorial follow-through highlights growing concerns over selective accountability in Gauteng policing.
Watch Madlanga Commission
Acting Appointment Raises Eyebrows
Despite misconduct findings, Mkhwanazi was appointed acting head of EMPD in November 2024 after sexual assault allegations were made against Mapiyeye. Critics say the move reflects a deeper factional power play within the metro police.
Mapiyeye remains on precautionary suspension. He has consistently denied all allegations against him and is seeking to clear his name.
Public Reaction and Governance Concerns
Local government watchdogs have called for transparency and an independent review of EMPD leadership decisions. Civil society organisations have also questioned the City of Ekurhuleni’s oversight mechanisms.
A GBV activist, Bheki Kubheka, previously welcomed Mapiyeye’s suspension, stating:
“Other victims can you please come forward and break the silence.”
What This Means for Metro Policing in Gauteng
The case reveals deeper issues around the political-administrative interface in municipal policing. It also reflects a breakdown in oversight, as evident in the DPP’s silence on IPID’s findings.
Experts warn that this could affect public trust in law enforcement and the rule of law.
Also read: Madlanga Commission: Khumalo Links Sibiya to Criminal Syndicates — explosive testimony reveals alleged ties between SAPS leadership and organised crime.
Quick Facts
What are the allegations against EMPD Chief Mapiyeye?
He faces sexual misconduct claims and accuses the council of political interference in policing matters.
Who is Vusimuzi Matlala?
A tender tycoon allegedly linked to fraudulent agreements with EMPD officials.
What has IPID said?
IPID found misconduct by EMPD official Julius Mkhwanazi, but no prosecution has followed yet.
Who oversees metro policing?
Municipal police fall under city management but must comply with national policing and anti-corruption frameworks.
Is the DPP investigating the claims?
The case remains with the DPP in Gauteng, with no formal action reported as of November 2025.
