Ekurhuleni is rocked by allegations of sexual harassment and abuse of power within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD). Former Ekurhuleni City Manager, Dr. Imogen Mashazi, has placed suspended police chief Jabulani Mapiyeye at the centre of the scandal, accusing him of exploiting his position to sexually harass female subordinates in exchange for promotions.
Mashazi's Testimony at Madlanga Commission
Dr. Mashazi, testifying before the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry in Pretoria, stated that women in the EMPD had complained to her about being propositioned for sexual favours in return for career advancement. She further alleged that Mapiyeye had fathered children with some of his subordinates, highlighting a pattern of behaviour indicative of systemic abuse of authority.
The Case of Lt-Col Kelebogile Thepa
Mashazi pointed to the rapid promotion of EMPD spokesperson Lt-Col Kelebogile Thepa as a possible example of this alleged practice. She contrasted Thepa's quick ascent with the slower progress of other officers with more qualifications and experience.
Madlanga's Rebuke & Mashazi's Defence
Justice Mbuyiseli Madlanga, Chairperson of the commission, criticised Mashazi for not taking more proactive steps when she first heard the allegations back in 2016. Madlanga questioned why she didn't initiate an investigation, even without formal complaints. Mashazi defended her actions, stating that she couldn't launch an investigation without a formal complaint.
Wider Implications and Allegations
The Madlanga Commission is also investigating allegations that Mashazi protected suspended EMPD chief Julius Mkhwanazi, who is accused of entering into a questionable agreement with a security company linked to alleged drug cartel member Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. This agreement allegedly allowed Matlala's vehicles to bypass roadblocks without being searched.
The hearings are ongoing, and the allegations are serious. The Madlanga Commission will need to thoroughly investigate these claims to uncover the truth and ensure accountability within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department.