Before adjourning, the Madlanga Commission heard damning allegations against Julius Mkhwanazi, the suspended former Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief, who was accused of orchestrating rogue operations, criminal misconduct, and institutional capture at the department.  

The EMPD was explicitly included in the commission’s terms of reference — with witnesses describing what allegedly transpired at the department as a “dark chapter” in its history.

The city said the testimony that emerged was “shocking” and announced internal processes linked to allegations aired during hearings.

Chaired by retired Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, the commission is investigating allegations of criminality, manipulation of law enforcement processes, and institutional capture in South Africa’s criminal justice system. It is expected to resume in January.

Suspended EMPD Chief Isaac Mapiyeye testified that a significant portion of the department’s dysfunction stemmed from Mkhwanazi, who he said “disregarded my authority” and effectively operated without oversight since at least 2021.

Mapiyeye alleged that Mkhwanazi signed unauthorised memorandums of understanding (MOUs) with private actors, notably alleged underworld figure, tenderpreneur, and attempted murder accused Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala’s security firm, CAT VIP Protection, deploying the company at official city events, including the State of the City Address, without command approval.

Mapiyeye also claimed Mkhwanazi installed blue lights on Matlala-linked vehicles and registered them as municipal assets, illegally conferring emergency vehicle privileges.

Between May and July 2024, Mkhwanazi allegedly pushed through 55 senior promotions and appointments without advertising positions or obtaining approval, ostensibly selecting candidates loyal to him and undermining Mapiyeye’s authority.

Efforts to curb these practices, the suspended chief said, were frustrated by senior city officials, including former city manager Dr Imogen Mashazi, who failed to act on complaints or support disciplinary measures.

Former deputy chief Revo Spies presented evidence of rogue policing and criminal conduct, testifying that a specialised

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