State warns witnesses could be in danger if Mkhwanazi gets bail

By Mapaballo Borotho

• The State is opposing bail for Julius Mkhwanazi and Kagiso Lerutla, warning they could interfere with investigations and endanger witnesses.
• Prosecutors cited past allegations and the killing of a key witness to argue the accused hold significant influence.
• The pair deny flight risk, while facing charges of corruption, fraud and defeating the ends of justice.

The State has told the Boksburg Magistrate’s Court that suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Department chief, Julius Mkhwanazi, and city manager Kagiso Lerutla could interfere with ongoing criminal investigations against them.

Mkhwanazi and Lerutla are appearing before the court, where the State is opposing their bail.

Prosecutor Nceba Ntelwa told the court that several State witnesses are known to both accused, and this places them in danger, given Mkhwanazi’s history.

The State referenced the Emmanuel Mbense case to support its opposition, citing that Julius Mkhwanazi’s alleged involvement symbolises a level of influence.

Last year, the Madlanga Commission heard that Mkhwanazi covered up a murder case in Ekurhuleni and instructed for Mbense’s body to be disposed of, either in a dam or a mine shaft.