Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Chief Julius Mkhwanazi is under fire after allegations emerged that he approved an irregular agreement with CAT VIP Protection, a private security firm owned by businessman Vusimuzi “CAT” Matlala.
Opposition parties, including the DA and ActionSA, are demanding Mkhwanazi’s suspension, claiming the deal improperly allowed private security personnel to work alongside EMPD officers—including access to crime intelligence, a function reserved for state officials.
DA’s Thabo Luthuli called the arrangement “unethical and potentially criminal,” citing Matlala’s controversial history. ActionSA’s Funzi Ngobeni said the scandal highlights ongoing concerns about Mkhwanazi’s leadership.
The City of Ekurhuleni says it’s reviewing the matter, while civil society groups are pushing for IPID to investigate. Mkhwanazi has not yet responded publicly.
The controversy raises broader questions about governance and accountability in Ekurhuleni’s policing structures.