WATCH | Mashazi faces questions at Madlanga Commission on EMPD criminal influence

 Dr Imogen Mashazi, former Ekurhuleni City Manager, who has been linked to the suspended acting EMPD head, Julius Mkhwanazi, is testifying at the Madlanga Commission. 

Mashazi’s name has been repeatedly linked to Mkhwanazi, who appears in a circulating video proclaiming he would “take a bullet” for her.

Evidence presented so far painted a portrait of Mkhwanazi’s character and involvement in criminality.

But Mashazi is also accused using her position to influence other officials to protect Mkhwanazi from disciplinary hearings.

She even went as far as rewarding those who were loyal to her with salary increases of up to R600,000.

An Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) report alleged he unlawfully entered into an agreement with suspected underworld figure Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala, raising questions about the extent of mafia-style influence in the EMPD.

The commission has also heard that Mkhwanazi allegedly commanded a rogue EMPD unit known internally as “SWAT.”

Testimony links the unit to a catalogue of violent crimes, including robbery, murder, extortion, hijacking and theft—suggesting systemic corruption far beyond isolated misconduct.

IOL understands that, in addition to Mkhwanazi, suspended Police Minister Senzo Mchunu and possibly suspended deputy commissioner Shadrack Sibiya are expected to testify this week.

Mchunu, scheduled to appear on Tuesday, remains suspended over allegations of ties to criminal gangs and political interference in police operations.

The public hearing will conclude on Friday. A three-month interim report is due to be submitted to President Cyril Ramaphosa by December 17, with the final report expected in March.

kamogelo.moichela@iol.co.za

IOL Politics