Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi has admitted under oath that he accepted money from controversial businessman and criminal accused Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala in exchange for favours.
Appearing for a second day before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry on Thursday, Mkhwanazi crumbled after hours of intense cross-examination by Evidence Leader Advocate Mahlape Sello. Having spent the previous day evading questions and contradicting himself, he eventually conceded:
“I received money from him for things like petrol and food. When I was suspended I had no income, and he assisted me. We were very close.”
Mkhwanazi had begun his testimony on Wednesday with apparent confidence, but rapidly unravelled. He became increasingly incoherent, visibly nervous, and consumed large quantities of water, prompting frequent bathroom breaks that sparked widespread commentary and amusement on social media.
His attempts to distance himself from official documents he had personally authored were firmly rejected by both the evidence leader and the commission. In one exchange, after repeatedly denying knowledge of a letter, he was confronted with the fact that he himself had written and signed it:
Commissioner: “Is that your signature?” Mkhwanazi: “Yes, it is, Commissioner.” Advocate Sello: “Then let us return to the letter you claim never to have seen.” Mkhwanazi: “Oh… I see. I must be tired now. My humble apologies.”
Mkhwanazi was eventually released but informed that he will be recalled in 2026 to answer substantially graver allegations, including claims that a specialised EMPD unit reporting directly to him was involved in violent crimes.
Police Minister Senzo Mchunu resumed his own testimony immediately after Mkhwanazi left the stand.