Johannesburg – Suspended Deputy Chief of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) Julius Doctor Mkhwanazi has been fired while remanded in custody.
The City of Ekurhuleni on Friday, 18 September 2026, announced that it had terminated Mkhwanazi’s employment as EMPD Deputy Chief of Police: Operations and Specialised Services.
In a statement made available to The Bulrushes, the City of Ekurhuleni said City Manager Kagiso Lerutla decided to fire crime-accused Mkhwanazi after considering submissions by the Human Resources Department.
The City Manager also considered the internal disciplinary processes instituted against Mkhwanazi, evidence placed before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, and the cumulative effect of the criminal matters involving him on the employment relationship.
Mkhwanazi has been arrested five times.
He was granted bail on four of the matters and remains in custody in connection with the murder of businessman Emannuel Mbense, and the plot to cover up the dastardly deed.
The City Manager also considered, among other factors, the seriousness of the matters, Mkhwanazi’s seniority within the EMPD, the connection between the allegations and his official responsibilities, and the resulting impact on the integrity and reputation of the municipality.
“His denial of bail in relation to a Schedule 6 murder charge and continued incarceration heightened concerns about his prolonged unavailability and the prospects of concluding the internal disciplinary proceedings within a reasonable period,” the City said.
“With the duration of the criminal proceedings uncertain, the City also had to consider the EMPD’s urgent need for stable leadership, an active and visible command presence, and ethical leadership that strengthens organisational morale and public confidence.”
The City said repeated delays affecting the internal disciplinary proceedings, Mkhwanazi’s continued court appearances and incarceration, and the exceptional circumstances made the continuation of the employment relationship untenable.
“Having assessed the totality of the circumstances and the City’s obligations as a public institution, the City Manager determined that termination was necessary to protect the legitimate interests of the municipality and the communities it serves,” the statement said.
“The decision demonstrates the City’s commitment to consequence management, institutional stability and the protection of its reputation.
“It also forms part of the broader governance renewal underway within the municipality, aimed at strengthening internal controls, restoring organisational discipline and ensuring that municipal resources and authority are exercised solely in the public interest.”
The City emphasised that the termination is an employment decision based on the circumstances affecting the employment relationship.
“The criminal charges against Mkhwanazi remain matters for the courts, and he retains the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty,” the statement said.
The City said it remains focused on maintaining stability within the EMPD and ensuring the continued delivery of effective policing and community-safety services.
