Suspended EMPD head received R70k from Matlala, Madlanga Commission learns

The suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) head, Julius Mkhwanazi, received at least R70,000 from tender tycoon, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, in what the Madlanga Commission described as gratification payments.

Bank statements showing transfers of large sums of money into Mkhwanazi's account from three different companies owned by Matlala were presented to the commission on Thursday

Mkhwanazi received the payments in 2022 but claimed he, in fact, had received more from Matlala.

ALSO READ: Mkhwanazi denies fitting blue lights into four of Matlala’s cars

Mkhwanazi described Matlala as a “blood brother”, claiming they shared a very close bond. He said Matlala would pay him large sums of cash when he was going through “tough times”.

The former EMPD boss is accused of signing off on two agreements that would allow Matlala’s private security and medical emergency vehicles to be fitted with blue and red lights respectively.

Evidence leader Advocate Mahlape Sello outlined the payments Mkhwanazi received from Matlala, which she deemed as gratification payments.

She stated, “The first is paid by Cat Protection and Security Services (Pty) Ltd, the date paid is 5 May 2022, an amount of R20,000. The second is by Medicare24 Tshwane District and the date is 18 June 2022 for R20,000. The last is Black AK Trading Suppliers Limited and that was on the 10th of December 2022 for R30,000.”

Mkhwanazi agreed he received the payments from Matlala but disputed they were for gratification, maintaining Matlala was just assisting him during “tough times”.