Suspended EMPD deputy chief Brigadier Julius Mkhwanazi appears in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court facing allegations connected to a precious stones theft valued at about R14.9 million. Multiple reports say he is released on R5,000 bail while the matter proceeds, together with former partner Witness K. During the bail hearing, Mkhwanazi argues he is unlikely to flee because he has long-standing ties to Gauteng and presents personal financial information to the court. He testifies that his take-home salary is about R65,000 per month after deductions. He also states he holds assets worth roughly R2.5 million. In addition, he says he has a pension valued at about R7 million and that he could lose this pension if he leaves the country. The court considers these claims as part of the bail decision amid allegations that involve stolen precious stones and the role he and Witness K are said to have played. The reports do not indicate the outcome of the underlying criminal case.