Explosive Parliament testimony: Julius Mkhwanazi admits relationship with ‘Cat’ Matlala

Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi has admitted to having ties with controversial businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, placing him at the centre of Parliament’s widening investigation into alleged police corruption and mismanagement.

Mkhwanazi appeared before Parliament’s SAPS ad hoc committee in Cape Town this week, delivering testimony that could significantly influence the outcome of the inquiry, which is probing the misuse of police resources, questionable procurement practices, and political interference within law enforcement structures.

What Julius Mkhwanazi Told the Ad Hoc Committee

During his testimony, Mkhwanazi confirmed a professional and financial relationship with Matlala, whose name has repeatedly surfaced in allegations involving irregular access to police equipment and influence within security agencies.

He acknowledged that he was previously suspended in February 2023 after being accused of facilitating the provision of blue lights and branded police vehicles to a company linked to Matlala.

“I was suspended on the 20th of February 2023. The letter said I stole blue lights and branded vehicles for Cat Security,” Mkhwanazi told the committee.

He added that the suspension lasted three months, after which he was reinstated.

Blue Lights Scandal and Prior Suspension

At the heart of the controversy is a memorandum allegedly signed by Mkhwanazi, which allowed the installation of blue lights, equipment typically reserved for law enforcement, into vehicles belonging to a private company linked to Matlala.

This revelation has raised serious questions about:

• Abuse of police authority
• Preferential treatment of private individuals
• Weak oversight within metro police structures

The committee is expected to scrutinise how such authorisation was granted and whether it violated existing policing regulations.

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Money Transfers and Relationship With Matlala

Mkhwanazi also admitted that Matlala gave him money, a disclosure that intensified concerns among MPs about possible corruption, bribery, or undue influence.

While he did not provide full details on the nature or timing of the payments, committee members indicated that further questioning would focus on whether these transactions influenced official decisions within the EMPD.

A Familiar Face in High-Level Investigations

This is not Mkhwanazi’s first appearance before a major inquiry. He previously testified before the Madlanga Commission, which examined alleged corruption and dysfunction within policing agencies.

His repeated involvement in high-profile investigations has fueled public debate about accountability, leadership vetting, and disciplinary enforcement in South Africa’s law enforcement bodies.

Why Parliament Is Investigating EMPD Corruption

The SAPS ad hoc committee was established to investigate systemic corruption, including:

• Irregular procurement
• Political interference
• Abuse of specialised police equipment
• Relationships between officers and private business interests

Mkhwanazi is the fourth witness to testify since the committee resumed its second phase in 2026. His testimony is scheduled to continue over two days, as lawmakers aim to finalise their findings.

What Happens Next in the Inquiry

The committee is expected to hear additional testimony from:

• Former IPID head Robert McBride
• Other senior law enforcement officials

Findings from the inquiry could result in:

• Criminal referrals
• Policy reforms
• Disciplinary action within metro police departments

For Mkhwanazi, the outcome could determine whether his suspension becomes permanent, or escalates into criminal prosecution.

FAQ

Who is Julius Mkhwanazi?

Julius Mkhwanazi is the suspended deputy chief of the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department, currently under investigation for alleged misconduct and links to businessman Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala.

Why was Julius Mkhwanazi suspended?

He was suspended in 2023 over allegations that he facilitated the use of police blue lights and branded vehicles for a private company linked to Matlala.

What did Mkhwanazi admit before Parliament?

He confirmed having ties with Matlala, acknowledged receiving money from him, and admitted to being previously suspended over the blue lights controversy.

Who is Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala?

Matlala is a businessman whose name has surfaced in multiple investigations involving alleged influence within police and security structures.

What is the SAPS ad hoc committee investigating?

The committee is probing widespread allegations of police corruption, mismanagement, and abuse of authority across South Africa’s law enforcement agencies.

Could Mkhwanazi face criminal charges?

While no charges have been announced yet, the committee’s findings could lead to criminal referrals or disciplinary action depending on the evidence.