The internal disciplinary hearing of suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi resumed on 14 July 2026 following a Johannesburg Labour Court ruling that allowed proceedings to go ahead despite union objections. Mkhwanazi faces allegations of misconduct, including the unlawful installation of blue lights on vehicles owned by a company linked to alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala, with his suspension dating back to November 2025 after an internal audit investigation.

Concurrent Criminal Proceedings And Court Rulings

On 13 July 2026, Mkhwanazi appeared in the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court alongside City Manager Kagiso Lerutla, both facing charges of corruption, fraud, and defeating the ends of justice, according to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). Earlier this year, the Johannesburg Labour Court dismissed an urgent application by the Municipal Employees Civil Servants Union (MECSU) to halt the disciplinary hearing, upholding the municipality’s authority to pursue its internal process.

City of Ekurhuleni spokesperson Phakamile Mbengashe, speaking to SABC News, stated, “We want to be transparent, we want to have a fair process so it is a long one but we must allow anybody who appears in front of the DC to state their case [and] bring evidence.” The charges stem from findings in the EMPD’s internal audit, which recommended disciplinary action following previous concerns over alleged abuse of power and gross dishonesty.

Timeline And Wider Implications For Ekurhuleni Policing

Mkhwanazi returned to duty on 19 October 2023 after a prior suspension, despite recommendations for charges at the time. His current suspension began on 11 November 2025, amid intensified scrutiny of municipal policing standards and accountability in Ekurhuleni. The hearing’s outcome carries significance for internal discipline policy and broader anti-corruption efforts within South African law enforcement spheres.

Kaizer Kganyago, NPA spokesperson, affirmed regarding recent legal developments: “The NPA hold the firm view that his withdrawal will not negatively impact the IDAC’s case against the 17 accused as we believe there is sufficient evidence to sustain the charges preferred against all the accused in this matter.” Mkhwanazi has not been convicted, and his legal proceedings remain ongoing.

The disciplinary hearing’s next session is expected to further examine evidence presented against Mkhwanazi, as Ekurhuleni authorities reaffirm their commitment to due process and transparency.