By Lebone Rodah Mosima
City of Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has launched a wide-ranging internal investigation into alleged misconduct and criminality within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD).
The City Manager, Kagiso Lerutla, has been tasked with investigating allegations involving 275 unvetted officers and reviewing 55 police promotions. On Monday, Xhakaza requested that the Speaker convene a Council meeting to update members on the investigation and explain why disciplinary proceedings were not initiated in 2023 against Brigadier Mkhwanazi, who was suspended over allegations of signing a fraudulent agreement with a private security company linked to criminal elements.
The move follows an urgent Mayoral Committee meeting on 17 November 2025, which tabled an internal report revealing serious allegations against two senior managers, echoing concerns raised at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry.
“Given the serious developments emerging internally and through alleged irregularities presented at the Madlanga Commission, I have mandated the City Manager to institute a broader, comprehensive investigation into alleged misconduct and administrative failures within the City’s law-enforcement structures. This investigation must produce a preliminary report within 30 days,” Xhakaza said.
He also directed that a preliminary report on the 275 unvetted officers — including those with alleged prior convictions — be submitted within 21 days.
In addition, Lerutla has been instructed to review the 55 alleged irregular police promotions, with corrective action to follow if the promotions are found to be unjustified or politically influenced.
A full report on these cases is expected within seven days.
“I have requested a full report on alleged irregular VIP protection deployments, including misuse of blue lights and the placement of officers facing criminal charges within VIP units. These matters must be fully understood to ensure accountability,” Xhakaza said.
To monitor and address ongoing issues, the Mayor has formed a dedicated team to track submissions and alleged administrative irregularities that may not appear in routine reporting.
He also announced the creation of two new positions: a Security Advisor in the Office of the Mayor and a Commissioner of Integrity, to provide independent oversight on governance breaches, ethical concerns, and security risks.
Xhakaza has formally requested an urgent meeting with the Executive Director of the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) to coordinate on cases involving city officers.
“The city must embrace renewal, restore ethical leadership, strengthen controls, professionalise law enforcement, and rebuild public confidence,” he said.
He stressed that the administration remains committed to clean governance, tightening oversight, and promoting accountability while supporting the Madlanga Commission without interfering in its independent processes.
“This administration is determined to build a safer, more reliable, and resilient City of Ekurhuleni,” Xhakaza said.
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