Mamabolo slams EMPD corruption: ‘Criminal records, stolen guns and public trust at risk’

Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), Jacob Mamabolo, has sounded the alarm over widespread misconduct in the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD), warning that corruption, abuse of authority and stolen firearms are eroding public trust. The Madlanga commission exposed systemic rot, revealing that 275 active EMPD officers hold criminal records for serious offences including murder and rape, while others face pending trials. Senior leadership, including EMPDdeputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi, was implicated in criminal syndicates, fuelling defiance and illegal strikes that endangered public safety.

Mamabolo’s spokesperson, Theo Nkonki, said the MEC is deeply concerned about the state of discipline in the department. “The integrity of municipal law enforcement is fundamental to public confidence, effective crime prevention and quality service delivery. Allegations of misconduct must be dealt with swiftly, fairly and consistently,” Nkonki stressed.

The EMPD employs 2 077 officers, with 1 943 deployed operationally. Over the past five years, investigations have uncovered bribery, corruption, abuse of authority and collusion with criminals. Eight officials have been dismissed, 16 suspended and 15 disciplinary matters remain pending.

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Mamabolo welcomed the city’s programme to vet all EMPD officers, describing it as vital to restoring integrity and professionalism. Operational challenges remain severe. Of the 1 498 vehicles, 297 are out of service, while seven handguns and a shotgun were stolen in the past financial year.

Mamabolo has called for full investigations into these losses. The MEC also highlighted the financial burden of sustaining policing services, urging municipalities to balance resources with accountability.

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