Suspended EMPD deputy commissioner Julius Mkhwanazi is at the centre of a growing municipal scandal. Testimonies before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry allege that Mkhwanazi had a private and unauthorised relationship with CAT VIP Protection, a security company owned by controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
Importantly, the City of Ekurhuleni and the EMPD have denied authorising any formal agreement with the company.
Mkhwanazi’s Role and the Fake MOU
During recent hearings, former employee relations director Xolani Nciza testified that no official memorandum of understanding (MOU) existed between EMPD and CAT VIP Protection. However, a letter issued by Mkhwanazi falsely claimed such an agreement was in place.
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“There is no working relationship, let alone an endless one,” Nciza told the commission.
“He had his own working relationship — not with EMPD or the city.”
CAT VIP Protection Allegedly Gained Police Privileges
One of the most alarming allegations is that Mkhwanazi issued letters to CAT VIP Protection staff that allowed them to bypass roadblocks and avoid searches. These letters stated that EMPD had an “endless relationship” with the company.
“A person bearing this letter could traffic goods or bypass police checks.”
— Nciza
This act gave a private company law enforcement-like immunity, violating national and municipal policies.
Blue Light Scandal and Abuse of Power
The City of Ekurhuleni only discovered the letter in 2023, despite it being dated 2021. By then, CAT VIP vehicles had allegedly been fitted with blue lights typically reserved for police and emergency services.
“There was no authority for the fitting of blue lights on private vehicles,” said a source from the internal audit.
“This was a clear abuse of public power.”
Dual Titles and Misrepresentation
According to Nciza, another red flag was Mkhwanazi’s use of dual titles in correspondence — calling himself both “Acting Deputy Commissioner” and “Brigadier.”
“You can’t sign off with two titles,” Nciza explained.
“That blurs roles and powers. It was clearly intended to confuse.”
Such misrepresentation calls into question the legitimacy of the correspondence and the authority under which it was issued.
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Internal Pushback and Political Interference
Attempts to hold Mkhwanazi accountable were allegedly blocked by former city manager Imogen Mashazi, who ordered his reinstatement.
“She told me to leave Julius alone and that I couldn’t extend his suspension,” said Nciza.
“She said, ‘O nahana ke masepala wa hao [You think it’s your municipality]’.”
These revelations suggest political protection and interference, which may have obstructed due process.
Criminal Investigations and Suspension
The City of Ekurhuleni re-suspended Mkhwanazi on 12 November 2025, following internal audit recommendations. The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) has confirmed it is investigating related misconduct and criminal allegations.
Additional claims against Mkhwanazi include:
- Copper theft in Meyerton
- A cover-up of a 2022 torture and murder case
- Extortion and abuse of municipal resources
Official Response from the Municipality
City Manager Kagiso Lerutla has pledged to clean up the city’s leadership.
“The testimony is shocking and deeply concerning. We are committed to clean governance and restoring public trust.”
Key Takeaways
- Julius Mkhwanazi allegedly created a fake MOU between CAT VIP Protection and EMPD
- CAT VIP vehicles were reportedly granted unlawful law enforcement privileges
- Letters misrepresented EMPD authority and may have facilitated illicit activity
- Attempts to discipline Mkhwanazi were allegedly blocked by senior city officials
- The matter is now under investigation by IPID and the Madlanga Commission
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Was there an official partnership between EMPD and CAT VIP Protection?
No. The Madlanga Commission has found no signed agreement between EMPD and CAT VIP Protection.
Who authorised the letter granting CAT VIP special status?
Julius Mkhwanazi signed the letter independently. He did not have the authority to do so.
What happens next in the investigation?
The matter has been escalated to IPID for further investigation. A disciplinary tribunal is also expected.
