The Madlanga Commission has uncovered explosive claims of corruption in the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD). Suspended EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi allegedly forged an agreement to give Vusimuzi “CAT” Matlala’s company illegal authority and lucrative business. The fraudulent deal highlights the deep governance failures within Ekurhuleni’s public safety structures.
Madlanga Commission Unveils Widespread Corruption in EMPD
The Madlanga Commission, launched to investigate corruption and political interference in the justice system, is now examining irregular dealings within Ekurhuleni’s EMPD. Central to the inquiry is a document created by Julius Mkhwanazi. This draft memorandum falsely presented a partnership between the municipality and CAT VIP Security.
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Key Witness Testimony:
- Former HR head Xolani Nciza confirmed the MOU was never authorised.
- Nciza called it “grossly dishonest,” noting it misled internal staff and the public.
“There is no memorandum of understanding that existed between the municipality and CAT VIP. What existed was a draft, and a draft is simply that,” Nciza told the Commission.
How Julius Mkhwanazi’s Fake Deal Gave CAT Matlala Millions
The fake MOU enabled Matlala’s company to act like a policing unit. Vehicles linked to CAT VIP were illegally registered under the City of Ekurhuleni and fitted with police blue lights.
Impacts of the Deal:
- CAT VIP appeared to operate as an official law enforcement agency.
- Vehicles could evade scrutiny by posing as EMPD units.
This arrangement gave CAT VIP access to state-linked contracts and prestige, allowing them to secure further business.
Fake Documents and Forged Signatures Enabled Rogue Operations
Mkhwanazi allegedly claimed the EMPD fell under his exclusive control. This was structurally false and allowed him to bypass municipal oversight.
Further Allegations:
- Forgery of superiors’ signatures
- Misrepresentation of municipal mandates
- Collusion with other senior officials
ALSO READ: Julius Mkhwanazi Had “Relationship” With CAT VIP Protection, Not EMPD
Blue Light Scandal Raises Public Safety Fears
According to Nciza, CAT VIP vehicles were equipped with emergency lights. These were registered under the municipality but used by a private company.
“These were private cars disguised as official ones. The risks were obvious,” Nciza testified.
This misuse created a threat to public safety, enabling impersonation of law enforcement.
Internal Efforts to Block Accountability
Nciza named senior officials who blocked disciplinary steps. EMPD HR head Linda Gasheka and former city manager Imogen Mashazi allegedly shielded Mkhwanazi.
“It was clear she didn’t want him touched,” Nciza said, quoting Mashazi’s angry reaction to disciplinary action.
Charges Include Theft, Extortion, and Kidnapping
A disciplinary tribunal approved in April 2023 aimed to investigate Mkhwanazi and other officials for serious charges:
- Theft
- Robbery
- Extortion
- Kidnapping
- Bribery
The Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) warned that arrests could disrupt the process, delaying justice.
What the Madlanga Commission Means for Ekurhuleni
The Madlanga Commission’s findings may lead to criminal prosecutions. It has already resulted in Mkhwanazi’s suspension and triggered internal reviews.
Broader Implications:
- Greater scrutiny on EMPD contracts
- Governance reforms in public safety structures
- Increased demand for transparency in municipal partnerships
FAQs
Q: Who is CAT Matlala?
A businessman linked to several municipal contracts and now facing scrutiny for unlawful policing operations.
Q: What is the Madlanga Commission?
An official inquiry into political interference, corruption, and law enforcement abuse in South Africa.
Q: What happens next?
The Commission will continue to hear evidence. Criminal investigations and arrests may follow.
