The Madlanga Commission of Inquiry has heard explosive allegations that suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) chief, Julius Mkhwanazi, received multiple payments from alleged crime boss Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala and Medicare24 CEO Mike van Wyk in exchange for unlawful favours.
The claims emerged during testimony and evidence presented before the commission on Monday, where a series of WhatsApp conversations and financial transactions were scrutinised.
According to Chief evidence leader at the Madlanga Commission, Matthew Chaskalson, messages exchanged between the three men suggest that Mkhwanazi received substantial sums of money during 2022 while allegedly assisting with requests that fell outside the bounds of the law.
The commission heard that vehicles linked to both Van Wyk and Matlala were fitted with police blue lights, allegedly through irregular arrangements facilitated within the EMPD. Investigators claim these approvals were linked to questionable memorandums of understanding that enabled the vehicles to appear connected to law enforcement structures.
One voice note played before the commission captured Van Wyk requesting assistance from Mkhwanazi regarding the installation of blue and red emergency lights on a newly purchased vehicle. In the recording, Van Wyk asks whether the vehicle could be registered on the EMPD fleet and carry EMPD markings to avoid being accused of impersonating a police officer. The commission heard that Mkhwanazi subsequently assisted in facilitating the request.
The inquiry is examining broader allegations of corruption and criminal interference within the City of Ekurhuleni and the EMPD. Mkhwanazi has previously been implicated in allegations involving fraudulent agreements, abuse of authority and links to criminal networks. He was arrested earlier this year on charges including fraud, corruption and defeating the ends of justice, although those matters remain before the courts.
The commission also heard that Van Wyk is expected to submit a supplementary affidavit by 6 July in response to allegations raised during the proceedings. His anticipated testimony is expected to provide further insight into his relationship with Matlala, as well as the circumstances surrounding the controversial dealings involving the EMPD.
Bongi Sikelo 