Mkhwanazi first appeared at the Madlanga Commission last year. The commission is investigating allegations against Julius Mkhwanazi, the suspended Deputy Chief of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD), who is accused of colluding with alleged Big Five cartel member Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala.
On April 14, 2026, Mkhwanazi’s second appearance at the commission was postponed due to the death of his stepmother. He clarified that the postponement was not related to his biological mother, stating, “I’m still saying that [she’s my mother]. She raised me. She’s my mother. Yes, I was not born out of her, but she raised me since I was young.”
However, the death certificate presented to the commission indicated that the deceased was only 10 years older than Mkhwanazi, raising questions about his honesty and the validity of his claims. Mkhwanazi has denied misleading the commission regarding the reason for his absence.
The commission is currently investigating whether Mkhwanazi lied to avoid appearing before it. In response to the allegations, Mkhwanazi submitted supplementary statements with new annexures to the commission.
During the proceedings, Advocate Sesi Baloyi remarked, “This is your opportunity to address the commissioners on why you should not be held in contempt.” This statement underscores the gravity of the situation as Mkhwanazi faces scrutiny.
Former EMPD chief Revo Spies also testified about vetting failures within the EMPD, which may have implications for the ongoing investigation. Observers are keenly watching how these developments will impact Mkhwanazi’s career and the broader implications for the EMPD.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the exact date of Mkhwanazi’s first appearance at the Madlanga Commission and the potential consequences of the commission’s findings on his future.