Suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi has been dismissed by the City of Ekurhuleni following the conclusion of his internal disciplinary proceedings.
Also see: Julius Mkhwanazi and co-accused await bail judgment in Mbense murder case
Mkhwanazi had been suspended since 11 November 2025 after the City said an internal audit investigation had raised allegations of misconduct.
At the time, Ekurhuleni stressed that the suspension was an administrative measure and did not constitute a finding of guilt.
Disciplinary proceedings conclude
According to EWN, Mkhwanazi’s internal disciplinary hearing was finally concluded after proceedings that had originally been expected to begin in 2023.
He faced several internal charges, including allegations relating to the unlawful issuing of police blue lights to vehicles linked to businessman Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala.
The disciplinary process had expanded during 2026, with additional allegations reportedly added to the matter, including claims linked to the alleged theft of precious stones worth almost R15 million.
The city has now terminated Mkhwanazi’s employment.
Also see: Julius Mkhwanazi returns to court for bail application in Emmanuel Mbense murder case
Criminal cases remain before the courts
Mkhwanazi’s dismissal comes as he continues to face several criminal matters.
He is currently in custody after being denied bail in a case involving the alleged murder of businessman Emmanuel Mbense. Mkhwanazi and five co-accused face charges including murder, robbery and defeating the ends of justice in connection with Mbense’s death.
He is also facing a separate case involving the alleged theft of precious stones from a property in Killarney. In July, the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) arrested Mkhwanazi in connection with the matter, which involves allegations surrounding stones valued at approximately R14.9 million.
Mkhwanazi has previously denied wrongdoing and maintained that he is innocent until proven guilty.
EWN reports that the City of Ekurhuleni said the termination of Mkhwanazi’s employment is an employment matter and should be distinguished from the criminal cases currently before the courts.
The City also stressed that the criminal charges remain matters for the courts and that Mkhwanazi retains his constitutional right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty.
His dismissal now marks another significant development in a case that has involved disciplinary proceedings, multiple arrests and ongoing criminal investigations.
Also see: Court postpones Julius Mkhwanazi case over alleged R14.9m heist
Featured image: X/@pule_jones
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