Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department deputy chief, Julius Mkhwanazi, and Ekurhuleni City Manager Kagiso Lerutla, are back in court over fraud and corruption allegations. The two were arrested over the weekend on Schedule 5 charges, including fraud, corruption, and defeating the ends of justice. The State is expected to oppose their release.
The case relates to an alleged incident in 2019. Prosecutors say Lerutla failed to appear in court for a speeding charge because he attended a job interview on the same day. It is alleged that he and Mkhwanazi arranged for another person to appear in court in his place. The impersonator allegedly used Lerutla’s details to complete diversion documents. The State claims the arrangement cost R400,000.
Fraud and Corruption Allegations
The matter was briefly heard on Monday and postponed to allow the defence to prepare for bail. On Wednesday, the Ekurhuleni Metro confirmed that Lerutla had taken special leave while the case proceeds. Mkhwanazi is also linked to ongoing proceedings at the Madlanga Commission where he has not yet completed his testimony.
According to the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development, corruption is a serious offence in South Africa, and those found guilty can face severe penalties. The South African Police Service is responsible for investigating corruption cases and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
Key Allegations
- Lerutla failed to appear in court for a speeding charge
- Arranged for another person to appear in court in his place
- Impersonator used Lerutla’s details to complete diversion documents
- Arrangement cost R400,000
The case is ongoing, and the State is expected to present more evidence in the coming days. As the case unfolds, it is likely to have significant implications for the Ekurhuleni Metro and the City Manager’s office.
