The Madlanga Commission is back in session, diving deeper into allegations of corruption and criminal influence within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD). This week's hearings have revealed a disturbing picture of how powerful individuals, allegedly linked to the 'Big Five' cartel, exerted control over law enforcement.
Witness Testimony Exposes Deep-Rooted Corruption
Testimony has focused on the influence of Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala, an alleged leader of the Big Five cartel, and his connections to EMPD brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi. Witnesses claim officials were afraid to take disciplinary action against Mkhwanazi due to his ties to Matlala, suggesting a climate of fear and intimidation.
Xolani Nciza, the City of Ekurhuleni’s suspended director of employee relations, testified that city manager Imogen Mashazi hampered disciplinary processes to protect Mkhwanazi. Nciza stated, "I believe the drive to protect Mkhwanazi was a Mashazi driven effort – that was a Mashazi project. It was Mashazi who had these close links to Mkhwanazi."
HR Officials Implicated in Interference
Nciza further implicated Kemi Behari, Ekurhuleni’s head of legal services, and HR boss Linda Gxasheka, alleging they interfered with disciplinary processes to shield Brigadier Mkhwanazi. He expressed his shock at the level of interference, stating that senior management seemed determined to protect an employee regardless of proper procedures.
According to Nciza, Ekurhuleni senior officials "acted as though they were shop stewards” of Brigadier Mkhwanazi and did his bidding, highlighting the extent of the alleged corruption.
- The commission is investigating allegations of widespread criminality within the justice system.
- Witnesses have described a culture of fear and intimidation within the EMPD.
- Senior officials are accused of protecting individuals linked to criminal cartels.
The Madlanga Commission continues to gather evidence, promising further revelations about the extent of criminal influence within the EMPD and the wider justice system. The public awaits further developments with anticipation, hoping for accountability and reform.