Mkhwanazi labels ‘blue lights saga’ charges a political ploy

Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief, Julius Mkhwanazi, has accused unnamed individuals of using the so-called “Blue Lights Saga” to derail his chances of becoming EMPD chief.

Mkhwanazi appeared before the Germiston Magistrates’ Court on Friday alongside alleged underworld figure, Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, and EMPD fleet manager, Christ Steyn.

The trio face six counts of corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice, while Matlala also appeared on behalf of three companies linked to the case.

Mkhwanazi strongly denied the allegations, saying the charges were politically motivated.

“I suspect that the charges herein have been instigated and brought against me as part of a plot orchestrated by various individuals for ulterior and nefarious political motives,” his lawyer, Shafique Sarlie, read from his affidavit.

In his affidavit, Mkhwanazi acknowledged that the multiple criminal cases against him could damage his prospects of being appointed as the EMPD’s top cop when the position becomes vacant at the end of the year.

The matter, which now marks Mkhwanazi’s fifth ongoing criminal case, stems from a 2023 investigation that followed media questions about the alleged misuse of municipal vehicles by Matlala’s CAT VIP Protection.

Investigators allege Mkhwanazi previously drafted a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the EMPD and CAT VIP Protection without the necessary municipal approval. It is further alleged that Mkhwanazi and Steyn facilitated the registration of several CAT VIP Protection vehicles into the Ekurhuleni fleet.

Four vehicles were allegedly fitted with blue lights and sirens and registered as EMPD vehicles, but were later deregistered following investigations by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).

The National Prosecution Authority (NPA) says Mkhwanazi allegedly received R70,000 from companies linked to Matlala in connection with the vehicle registrations and the issuing of EMPD Peace Officer appointment cards.

Mkhwanazi’s bail application has been postponed to 14 September, as the court continues to monitor a separate case in which he is also applying for bail. 

Meanwhile Matlala and Steyn, who is out on R10,000 bail, are expected back in court in October.

Mkhwanazi, Matlala and Co-Accused in Court Over Alleged Illegal Use of Blue-Lights pic.twitter.com/AbVrNUY79C

— NPASouthAfrica (@NPA_Prosecutes) August 28, 2026