Seen Here: Suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi arrives at the Brakpan Magistrates’ Court alongside his co-accused for their first court appearance in connection with the alleged murder of businessman Emmanuel Mbense. The matter was postponed to 13 August 2026 for bail proceedings, with the State opposing bail for all five accused. The accused remain presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Photo Credit: Supplied
BRAKPAN – Suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) Deputy Chief Julius Mkhwanazi and his four co-accused remain in custody after making their first appearance in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 6 August, in connection with the alleged murder of businessman Emmanuel Mbense.
The high-profile case has attracted significant public attention, with the accused facing Schedule 6 charges of murder, as well as allegations of defeating the ends of justice. The State has indicated that it will oppose bail for all five accused, arguing that they should remain in custody while investigations continue.
The matter relates to the alleged killing of Mbense, who disappeared in April 2022 after police reportedly raided his home in Brakpan. Investigators allege that he was tortured to death before his body was disposed of in a dam, allegations that form the basis of the criminal case now before the court.
Bail proceedings postponed
During Thursday’s proceedings, defence lawyers sought further particulars from the prosecution regarding the allegations against the accused and the State’s reasons for opposing bail.
Following the application, the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court postponed the matter to 13 August 2026, when formal bail proceedings are expected to commence. Until then, Mkhwanazi and his co-accused will remain in custody.
Because the matter falls under Schedule 6 of the Criminal Procedure Act, the accused will bear the legal burden of demonstrating exceptional circumstances if they wish to be released on bail. The State has maintained that it intends to oppose their release.
Case linked to wider investigations
The arrests follow an investigation by the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) into the circumstances surrounding Mbense’s death.
The case has also drawn national attention because allegations relating to Mbense’s killing featured prominently during the Madlanga Commission of Inquiry, where witnesses made claims concerning alleged criminal networks involving law enforcement officials. Those allegations remain subject to ongoing criminal investigations and will ultimately be tested in court.
Presumption of innocence
The proceedings mark the beginning of what is expected to be a closely watched criminal trial.
As investigations continue, the court will determine whether the accused should be granted bail before the matter proceeds through the criminal justice process.
Julius Mkhwanazi and his four co-accused are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
