Thepa reinstated as EMPD spokesperson

The City of Ekurhuleni has reinstated, Lieutenant Colonel Kelebogile Thepa, as the spokesperson for the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD).

The decision comes a few days after Thepa gave a chilling testimony at the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, detailing alleged corruption within the metro.

She told the commission she had been forcibly removed from her position and was nearly assassinated after exposing alleged wrongdoing involving EMPD deputy chief Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi.

Thepa alleges that she was accosted at gunpoint by three men who demanded her cellphone, allegedly seeking sensitive information stored on the device.

The city’s spokesperson, Phakamile Mbengashe, says the EMPD’s Media and Public Relations Unit has formally been reinstated following an internal review of the department’s communication structures.

He says the decision is aimed at strengthening transparency, accountability and public confidence in the EMPD.

Meanwhile, newly appointed City Manager Kagiso Lerutla says consistent and accountable communication is essential for any law enforcement agency operating in a constitutional democracy.

“The reinstatement of the EMPD Media and Public Relations Unit is a corrective governance measure that ensures our communications functions operate within an approved structure, with clear reporting lines and proper oversight.”

Lerutla added that the reinstatement of Thepa and the media unit is an administrative and governance intervention and does not pre-empt the findings of the Commission.

“We will continue to cooperate fully with the Madlanga Commission and respect its independence. At the same time, we have a responsibility to ensure that our internal structures.”

Kelebogile Thepa.♥️🎊🎊#MadlangaCommission pic.twitter.com/o0kLEUBp0e

— 💌BAB💕 (@MantloroRammala) November 17, 2025

I’m starting to feel safe. The wheels of justice are slowly beginning to grind.Our sister Kelebogile Thepa is back at work as EMPD spokesperson. May good triumph over evil.

The 6th of July press briefing by General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi is delivering tangible results.

Malibongwe! pic.twitter.com/4mAkzT8ErB

— Wonder Peters (@PetersWonderboy) November 17, 2025

Can We Show Appreciation to Lt Colonel Kelebogile Thepa, Who is a True Patriot She was exposing the corruption at Ekurhuleni and nearly lost her life fighting for our country,Let’s give credit where due We need many HEROES like her in our country Salute #MadlangaCommission pic.twitter.com/I8N0E7GCyc

— IG:Joy-Zelda (@joy_zelda) November 14, 2025