Suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi and his five co-accused are expected to hear the outcome of their bail applications on Tuesday, 15 September 2026, in connection with the murder of businessman Emmanuel Mbense.
Also see: Court postpones Julius Mkhwanazi case over alleged R14.9m heist
The six accused, Mkhwanazi, Cobus Janse van Rensburg, Adrian MacKenzie, Keisha-Leigh Stols, Bhekokwakhe Sibande and Juan-Marie Eksteen, all face charges of murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances and defeating or obstructing the administration of justice.
Their bail proceedings were concluded at the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court on 8 September 2026 after weeks of evidence and arguments. Magistrate Colin Mashego is expected to deliver judgment on their applications.
State opposes release
According to The Citizen, the State has strongly opposed bail, arguing that the seriousness of the allegations and the potential safety of witnesses weigh against releasing the accused.
During closing arguments last week, the State prosecutor Nceba Ntelwa argued that Mkhwanazi knew what was expected of him and allegedly instructed that Mbense’s body be dumped at a dam. The prosecution has also emphasised an alleged motive involving stolen copper.
According to the State, the group was allegedly attempting to recover copper said to be worth about R5 million, with the accused allegedly expecting a share of its value.
During the bail proceedings, the prosecution also referred to the alleged threats surrounding people connected to the investigation.
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Defence challenges State’s case
Mkhwanazi’s defence has disputed the strength of the State’s evidence and questioned whether it establishes a sufficient case against individual accused persons.
Mail & Guardian reports that during the proceedings, defence lawyers challenged aspects of the investigation and the alleged roles played by their respective clients.
Mkhwanazi has denied the allegations against him. His bail application has been complicated by the fact that he is facing several other criminal matters, having been arrested in separate cases during 2026.
The latest proceedings are therefore being closely watched because a decision to grant or deny bail will determine whether Mkhwanazi and his five co-accused remain behind bars while the murder case moves towards trial.
Judgment expected Tuesday
For now, Mkhwanazi and his five co-accused remain in custody.
Many sources say the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court is scheduled to deliver the bail judgment on Tuesday, 15 September 2026.
This decision will determine whether the six accused are released on bail conditions or remain behind bars pending further proceedings in the Emmanuel Mbense murder case.
Also see: Julius Mkhwanazi returns to court for bail application in Emmanuel Mbense murder case
Featured image: X/@sile_siba
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