Julius Mkhwanazi, five co-accused denied bail in Mbense murder case

Suspended Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi and five co-accused were denied bail by the Brakpan Magistrates’ Court in relation to the 2022 murder of businessman Emmanuel Mbense. The State alleged that Mkhwanazi and his associates were involved in the robbery and subsequent killing of Mbense, who was allegedly dumped in a dam. The charges against the six individuals include murder, robbery, and defeating the ends of justice.

Magistrate Colin Mashego ruled that there were no exceptional circumstances to justify their release on bail. The court deemed that the accused failed to demonstrate their presence for the trial and that their personal circumstances did not constitute exceptional grounds. Additionally, the magistrate considered the gravity of the allegations and the potential repercussions for maintaining the proper administration of justice, leading to the denial of bail for all six individuals.