Ekurhuleni revives EMPD media unit, denies link to explosive commission testimony

The City of Ekurhuleni is reinstating the media and public relations division of the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) and with it, officer Kelebogile Thepa, who returns as head of the unit. The timing has raised eyebrows. Thepa testified before the Madlanga Commission last week, revealing she had received two death threats, which she believes are tied to the EMPD’s blue-lights scandal. Earlier testimony alleged that suspended deputy chief Julius Mkhwanazi arranged for blue lights meant only for law-enforcement vehicles to be illegally fitted onto cars belonging to businessman and attempted-murder accused Vusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. The initial exposé led to Thepa’s removal from her post. The city, however, insists her reinstatement has nothing to do with her revelations before the commission. Phemelo speaks to DA Ekurhuleni Spokesperson on Public Safety Jaco Terblanche, and ANC Ekurhuleni Regional Secretary Jongizizwe Dlabathi.