EMPD Deputy Chief and Three Co-Accused Face Court Return in R14 Million Precious Stones Case

JOHANNESBURG — The criminal case involving suspended Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi and three other accused has been postponed as they await access to the evidence gathered by investigators in an alleged R14 million precious stones theft.

Mkhwanazi appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday together with his co-accused, Witness K, Adrian Norman Mackenzie and Keisha Leigh Stols.

The four accused are facing charges arising from the alleged theft of precious stones worth approximately R14 million. The case has attracted particular attention because of Mkhwanazi’s senior position within the EMPD.

Defence awaits police docket

The matter was postponed to 18 September, allowing the defence teams time to obtain and study the police docket.

Prosecutors informed the court that the investigation had been completed and that the State was ready to move forward with the prosecution.

Access to the docket will allow the accused and their lawyers to review the evidence collected during the investigation and prepare their cases ahead of the next stage of the proceedings.

Mkhwanazi still suspended from EMPD

Mkhwanazi continues to remain suspended from his position as EMPD deputy chief while the criminal matter is before the courts.

The allegations against him and the other accused have not been proven. All four remain innocent unless and until a court finds them guilty.

The accused are expected to return to the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on 18 September, when the case is set to progress as the State moves closer to a trial.