Ekurhuleni Mayor Promises EMPD Clean-Up!
Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza has declared war on corruption within the City's Metro Police Department (EMPD). He insists a rigorous process is underway to identify and remove officers found guilty of criminal activity. This follows revelations before the Madlanga Commission that nearly 300 EMPD officers have criminal records or are facing trial for serious offences.
The Mayor's announcement comes on the heels of the suspension of EMPD Deputy Chief Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi. His suspension was triggered by recommendations from an internal audit investigation into allegations of misconduct.
"Lawlessness within the EMPD will not be tolerated," Xhakaza stated firmly. "We need to clean our system and rid it of wrong elements. Action must be taken against those reported to have committed crimes. This is what the council has directed us to do, what communities want us to do, and precisely what we are going to do."
Heads Will Roll, Warns Mayor
Xhakaza further warned that any official found to be complicit in wrongdoing related to Mkhwanazi's suspension will face disciplinary action. Damning allegations have surfaced, accusing City Head of HR Linda Gxasheka and Head of Legal Services Kemi Behari of actively obstructing disciplinary action against Mkhwanazi, despite evidence of misconduct.
A forensic report detailing Mkhwanazi's alleged misconduct is expected to be presented before the council shortly. "The internal forensic report that we had commissioned has pronounced, which is clearly the reason for the suspension of the acting chief and all other related officials who would have connived deliberately," Xhakaza explained. "The report is there and being processed as we speak, and it will serve in council. That report will be implemented fully without fear or favour."
The Mayor's tough stance signals a zero-tolerance approach to corruption within the EMPD and a commitment to restoring public trust in the metro police force.