Retired Ekurhuleni City Manager Imogen Mashazi, Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi, Human Resources head Linda Gxasheka and the city’s head of legal services, Kemi Behari, appeared before the Germiston Magistrates Court on Thursday.
The matter centres on allegations that Mkhwanazi was shielded from disciplinary action relating to an unlawful blue-light deal involving vehicles linked to suspected crime boss Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. Police have indicated that further arrests have not been ruled out as investigations continue.
Police Continue Investigating Ekurhuleni Corruption Case
The Ekurhuleni corruption case remains under active investigation, with authorities expressing confidence in the evidence gathered so far.
Mkhwanazi and Behari were each granted bail of R50,000 and are expected to be released from custody on Friday. Mashazi and Gxasheka are expected to submit formal bail applications at a later stage.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) alleges that three of the accused, including Gxasheka, unlawfully increased their own salaries after allegedly preventing disciplinary proceedings against Mkhwanazi. Prosecutors claim Gxasheka’s annual remuneration increased by more than R600,000 during 2023. The allegations form part of the broader corruption case now before the courts.
EMPD Blue-Light Scandal Linked To Cat Matlala
The EMPD blue-light scandal is a key focus of the case, with investigators alleging that vehicles belonging to Cat VIP Protection Services were unlawfully equipped with blue lights. Authorities also claim the four vehicles were illegally registered as EMPD vehicles. Police say the arrangement created the appearance that the vehicles were legitimate law enforcement assets.
Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe described the seriousness of the allegations.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Jumpers Informal Settlement Mass Shooting Bail Hearing Postponed For Three Lesotho Nationals
“It was highly unlawful for Cat VIP Protection Services’ four vehicles to be fitted with blue lights and also to be unlawfully registered under EMPD to create an impression that it’s EMPD vehicles.
“So, obviously, this would give Cat Matlala that opportunity to bypass any roadblocks. He would evade justice and so on, and he would be free to do any other criminal activities that we are currently seeing before the Madlanga Commission.”
Police Warn Against Illegal Blue Lights Amid Ongoing Investigation
Police say the Ekurhuleni corruption case also highlights the dangers associated with the unlawful use of blue lights. Authorities have reiterated that misuse of emergency equipment undermines law enforcement efforts and public safety. Investigators say enforcement against offenders will continue.
SEE TODAY'S TOP HEADLINES ACROSS LEADING PUBLICATIONS
Mathe also warned that police remain committed to taking action against those who illegally use blue lights.
“It was highly unlawful for Cat VIP Protection Services’ four vehicles to be fitted with blue lights and also to be unlawfully registered under EMPD to create an impression that it’s EMPD vehicles. So, obviously, this would give Cat Matlala that opportunity to bypass any roadblocks. He would evade justice and so on, and he would be free to do any other criminal activities that we are currently seeing before the Madlanga Commission.”
