Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi has been served with his fifth arrest warrant, this time in connection with the controversial blue-lights saga involving alleged underworld figure Vusimusi “Cat” Matlala.
The latest warrant was served by investigators from the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) at the Brakpan Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, shortly after proceedings in Mkhwanazi’s bail application relating to the murder of Emmanuel Mbense had concluded.
Mkhwanazi is alleged to have unlawfully approved the fitting of blue emergency lights to four private luxury vehicles linked to Matlala’s security company, Cat Protection Services.
The vehicles, reportedly comprising two BMWs, a Mercedes-Benz and a Volkswagen, were allegedly registered irregularly as City of Ekurhuleni assets before being fitted with blue lights.
The alleged arrangement between Mkhwanazi and Matlala has come under scrutiny at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, which is investigating allegations of criminality, corruption and interference within South Africa’s law enforcement agencies.
IPID investigators served Mkhwanazi with the latest warrant as he left the court following the day’s proceedings. The warrant relates specifically to the alleged unlawful installation and use of blue emergency lights on the vehicles.
The development adds to Mkhwanazi’s growing legal challenges. He is already facing proceedings linked to the murder case involving Mbense, while disciplinary proceedings have also been instituted against him in connection with allegations surrounding both the murder investigation and the blue-lights saga.
Mkhwanazi has previously denied allegations that he was responsible for fitting blue lights to four of Matlala’s vehicles.
The relationship between the suspended police official and Matlala has received increased attention during testimony before the Madlanga Commission, with investigators examining the circumstances surrounding the vehicles and the alleged use of police-related privileges.
Mkhwanazi and Matlala are expected to appear in the Germiston Magistrates’ Court on Friday in connection with the latest developments.
The latest arrest warrant further intensifies scrutiny of Mkhwanazi, whose conduct and alleged links to Matlala have become a key focus of ongoing investigations into alleged misconduct within law enforcement.