Julius Mkhwanazi, Cat Matlala to stay behind bars as EMPD official granted R10k bail in blue lights case
Vusimuzi 'Cat' Matlala opted to delay his own bail application.
Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi will remain in custody for at least two weeks following a reserved judgment on his bail application. Mkhwanazi appeared in Germiston Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 28 August 2026, alongside businessman Vusimuzi "Cat" Matlala and EMPD fleet manager Chris Steyn, who were arrested over allegations surrounding the installation of blue lights on vehicles belonging to Matlala.
Steyn was granted R10,000 bail, while Mkhwanazi's application was postponed to 14 September 2026 for further consideration. Mkhwanazi pleaded not guilty, claiming the state's case was weak and that the charges were politically motivated to prevent him from becoming EMPD chief. Matlala opted to delay his bail application. The three accused face charges of corruption, fraud, and defeating the ends of justice.
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