Boksburg – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed that the Boksburg Magistrates’ Court has granted bail of R30,000 each to suspended EMPD deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi and Ekurhuleni Municipal Manager Kagiso Lerutla, following their arrest on charges of corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice.
The court ruled that the accused had met the requirements for release on bail and that the “interests of justice permit their release,” subject to strict conditions.
According to the State, the charges stem from a March 2019 incident in which the pair allegedly acted with a common purpose to evade court proceedings.
NPA NOTES GRANTING OF BAIL TO MKHWANAZI AND LERUTLA
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…
— Yusuf Abramjee (@Abramjee) April 28, 2026
It is alleged that after Lerutla was arrested for speeding and required to appear in court, the accused recruited and paid a third party to impersonate him at the Boksburg Magistrates’ Court while he attended a job interview.
The State further alleges that the impersonator appeared under false pretences and completed diversion documents using Lerutla’s details. Investigators contend that the scheme involved gratification of about R400,000 shared between the accused.
The NPA said bail was opposed on the basis of an investigating officer’s affidavit, which raised concerns that the accused could interfere with witnesses and ongoing investigations due to the seriousness of the allegations and their alleged past conduct.
Breaking news
Suspended Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi and Ekurhuleni City Manager Kagiso Lerutla have been granted bail of R30,000 each. pic.twitter.com/dyfjF7uAbZ
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) April 28, 2026
Despite this, the court found that the State had not met the threshold to deny bail.
The case has been postponed to 13 May 2026 for a regional court appearance.
The NPA said it respects the ruling but will review the decision, adding that it remains committed to pursuing the matter and presenting a strong case in the interest of justice.
