Julius Mkhwanazi disciplinary process (EMPD)

Julius Mkhwanazi facilitated the registration of vehicles owned by CAT VIP Security under the City of Ekurhuleni without proper authority, enabling private vehicles to operate as municipal fleet. He obtained ID documents and submitted them to Chris Steyn for registration.

Julius Mkhwanazi attended the scene of a murder in Brakpan, allegedly gave instructions for body disposal, and later made statements to IPID containing inconsistencies. His presence and instructions are disputed.

EMPD Commissioner Julius Mkhwanazi received multiple cash payments from businessman Vusi (Cat) Matlala — including amounts for personal expenses and funeral assistance — while Matlala was involved with the municipality. Payments acknowledged by Mkhwanazi.

Mr Ze Nxumalo (businessman, owner of Zig Revenue Management) paid Onyx Aviation to fly Ekurhuleni City Manager Dr Mabotlanyo Imogen Mashazi, her husband Mr Bonginkosi Mashazi, Ms Seletswane, Mr Maleka, and others on a private charter to London over the weekend of 29–31 July 2022. The group stayed at the Corinthia Hotel. Counsel at the Commission asked explicitly what influence, protection, or access was expected from Mashazi in return in her capacity as City Manager — in the context of her decisions to uplift Julius Mkhwanazi's suspension and discipline (SC0009 E000120) and to place Chief Mapiyeye on leave after the precious stones complaint (SC0012 E000153).

HOD HR Linda Gxasheka was aware that Commissioner Julius Mkhwanazi refused vetting for himself and his entire command. She directed him in writing that vetting must happen and said she was supporting it — but gave no further follow-up when he continued to resist, and later participated in withdrawing his disciplinary proceedings (E000120). Her passivity allowed the vetting refusal to stand.

Xolani Nciza discussed with Linda Gxasheka the intention to suspend Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi. Gxasheka expressed safety concerns but agreed to the pre-suspension letter, issued the same day.

Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi was suspended from EMPD pending investigation into misconduct — including blue light use, vehicle registration irregularities, and other allegations. Suspension letter dated 24 February 2023, effective immediately.

Chief Mapiyeye approved a request for a disciplinary tribunal against Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi on 12 April 2023. The tribunal was subsequently halted by intervention from the City Manager and HOD HR before it could convene.

Following instructions from the City Manager and HOD HR, Julius Mkhwanazi's suspension was uplifted (20–21 June 2023) and internal disciplinary proceedings withdrawn (letter dated 22 June 2023), despite pending IPID recommendations and the April tribunal approval.

IPID delivered a report to the City of Ekurhuleni with findings of fraud and corruption, directing that disciplinary proceedings be instituted against Julius Mkhwanazi. Received by both the Chief of Police and the City Manager.

IPID issued a separate negative recommendation on 3 October 2023 regarding the blue lights scandal, directing the City to institute disciplinary proceedings. IPID stated there was overwhelming evidence against Julius Mkhwanazi.

Despite two adverse IPID reports and pending disciplinary processes, Julius Mkhwanazi was promoted to Deputy Chief of Police Operations at EMPD, effective 1 December 2023.

Julius Mkhwanazi was appointed Acting Chief of Police for EMPD from 6 to 17 May 2024 by the City Manager — while still facing potential disciplinary action following two adverse IPID reports.