The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) notes the decision by the Boksburg Magistrates’ Court to grant bail of R30,000 each suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief, Julius Mkhwanazi, and his co-accused, Ekurhuleni Municipal Manager, Kagiso Lerutla. The court found that the accused satisfied the requirements for their release on bail each and that the interests of justice permit their release, subject to conditions.
The State alleges that in March 2019, the accused acted with a common purpose to unlawfully evade court proceedings. Following Lerutla’s arrest for speeding and his obligation to appear before the Boksburg Magistrates’ Court, the accused allegedly recruited and paid a third party to impersonate Lerutla in court while he attended a job interview.
It is further alleged that the third party appeared in court under false pretences and completed diversion documentation using Lerutla’s personal details.
The State contends that the accused shared gratification of approximately R400,000 for facilitating this scheme. The accused were arrested and subsequently charged with corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice.
The State opposed bail, relying on the affidavit of the investigating officer, which highlighted a likelihood that the accused may interfere with witnesses and ongoing investigations, given the seriousness of the offences, their past conduct in undermining the criminal justice system, and their propensity to defeat the ends of justice.
Kaizer Kganyago
Spokesperson – National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said the matter was postponed to 13 May 2026 for a regional court date.
The NPA respects the court’s decision and will review the outcome, while remaining steadfast in its commitment to prosecute the matter diligently and present a strong case in the interests of justice.