Four current and former City of Ekurhuleni employees are due to appear in the Germiston Magistrates’ Court on Thursday following their arrest during coordinated operations carried out by the Madlanga Commission’s Recommendations Task Team.
The arrests were made across Johannesburg on Wednesday. Among those taken into custody are the City of Ekurhuleni’s head of legal services, Kemi Behari, and former municipal manager Imogen Mashazi.
Investigators allege the accused played a role in protecting suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, who is facing separate legal matters, including allegations linked to an impersonation scheme.
Madlanga Commission Arrests Target Ekurhuleni Officials
The Madlanga Commission arrests form part of an ongoing investigation into allegations surrounding Julius Mkhwanazi. Police confirmed that the four suspects are expected to make their first court appearance on Thursday.
South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said further details would be released after the court proceedings.
“The suspects are expected to appear before the Germiston Magistrates Court this morning [Thursday]. The SAPS will provide further details once the suspects have appeared in court.”
Kemi Behari Accused Of Blocking EMPD Disciplinary Action
The Kemi Behari allegations were previously raised during hearings before the Madlanga Commission. Evidence presented to the inquiry alleged that Behari prevented disciplinary action from being taken against Mkhwanazi.
The commission heard that the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) had recommended disciplinary proceedings after investigating allegations that Mkhwanazi authorised the issuing of blue lights to alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.
[Madlanga Commission Examines Alleged Links Between Julius Malema And Crime Intelligence Officer Feroz Khan]
An IPID report, which was leaked to Eyewitness News at the time, recommended that the City of Ekurhuleni institute disciplinary action. However, those proceedings did not take place and Mkhwanazi was later promoted.
Behari Denies Allegations Before Madlanga Commission
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The Madlanga Commission later heard further evidence alleging that Behari was responsible for preventing the recommended disciplinary process from moving forward. The allegations have become a key focus of the broader investigation into Mkhwanazi.
Behari denied the claims during his appearance before the commission. The inquiry continues to investigate the allegations as criminal proceedings against the accused begin in the Germiston Magistrates’ Court.
