Mkhwanazi likens claims he offered 'Cat' Matlala blue lights to 'character assassination'

Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Deputy (EMPD) Chief, Julius Mkhwanazi has revealed that allegations that he provided blue lights to Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala were part of a coordinated character assassination plot.

He brought this to lioght before the parliamentary ad hoc committee probing police graft on Thursday.

Mkhwanazi testified that senior members of the EMPD planted the story that he supplied police equipment for Matlala’s private vehicles.

He maintained a firm denial regarding these claims and further stated that he was not involved in the branding of any of Matlala’s vehicles, despite allegations previously submitted to the Madlanga Commission.

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During his testimony, Mkhwanazi suggested that a clear agenda existed to target him, specifically naming EMPD Chief Isaac Mapiyeye and other senior officials.

He argued that the narrative was designed to ensure his removal from his position.

"I think it's them, the deputy chief and the chief that are suspended. I was called a blue light blesser and I said can you show me those blue lights, I never saw those blue lights. It was character assassination to deal with me and it succeeded, it went everywhere," Mkhwanazi stated.

Additionally, Mkhwanazi addressed reports regarding financial transactions between himself and Matlala. He defended receiving cash from Matlala, explaining that the funds were a reimbursement for petrol money he had previously provided to assist him.