MMC Confirms EMPD’s Julius Mkhwanazi on Special Leave Amid Allegations of Abuse of Power

Ekurhuleni MMC for Community Safety, Sizakele Masuku, has confirmed that acting Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) chief, Julius Mkhwanazi, has taken special leave following serious allegations linking him to controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Masuku made the announcement during a council sitting this week, where councillors debated a motion to place Mkhwanazi on precautionary suspension.

READ: "Pure Lies": Ekurhuleni Official Denies Illegally Fitting Blue Lights for Businessman Vusi "Cat" Matlala

Allegations of Blue Light Privileges

The controversy stems from accusations that Mkhwanazi registered five private vehicles belonging to Matlala as official municipal cars back in 2003, further fitting them with blue lights. Such privileges are reserved for law enforcement and emergency vehicles, raising concerns about abuse of power and unlawful extension of police authority.

Mkhwanazi has categorically denied the allegations, insisting that he has no improper ties to Matlala and describing the claims as part of a malicious attempt to tarnish his name.

MMC Masuku Confirms Special Leave

Addressing the council, Masuku confirmed that Mkhwanazi had voluntarily applied for special leave to allow the investigation to proceed without obstruction.

“The development I can give the council now is that the acting chief of police is on special leave. He has written a letter that he is going on special leave so that he is not there during the process because it’s still allegations,” Masuku explained.

This decision, she emphasized, was meant to safeguard the integrity of the investigation process while balancing the principle of “innocent until proven guilty.”

Conflicting Accounts Before the Commission

The matter is complicated by conflicting narratives. On one hand, Lt. General Mkhwanazi (no relation) presented testimony to the Madlanga Commission alleging the improper registration and privileging of Matlala’s vehicles. On the other, the acting EMPD chief has relied on official records to dispute the allegations, while framing the claims as politically motivated.

These opposing versions present a critical test for accountability mechanisms within the Ekurhuleni Metro Police and the wider justice system.

READ: Cat Matlala's Private Cars Fitted with Municipal Blue Lights in Corruption Scandal

Implications for EMPD and Public Trust

The scandal has put the EMPD under intense public scrutiny, with questions raised about internal checks, vetting processes, and oversight failures that may have enabled such irregularities. Analysts argue that, if proven true, the allegations could point to systemic vulnerabilities where police authority is co-opted to benefit private interests.

At the same time, Mkhwanazi’s decision to step aside—though voluntary—may help restore confidence in the investigation’s fairness.