ActionSA has confirmed that Xolani Khumalo, its mayoral candidate for Ekurhuleni, will voluntarily present himself to the South African Police Service (SAPS) following reports that he may face arrest on an assault charge.
The party said the decision follows what it described as information suggesting that police intend to arrest Khumalo in connection with an alleged assault involving a suspected drug dealer during a police operation in 2025. Khumalo is a sitting councillor and has been a prominent figure in anti-crime campaigns in parts of Ekurhuleni.
In a statement, ActionSA spokesperson Matthew George said he had sought clarity from SAPS after learning of the possible arrest. He said Khumalo had agreed to hand himself over on Monday in order to cooperate with authorities.
ActionSA claims the case stems from a police raid in Katlehong in 2025, during which Khumalo was present. Officers allegedly discovered unlicensed ammunition at the home of a suspected drug dealer, who was briefly arrested. According to the party, the suspect was later released without appearing in court and the ammunition was returned.
George said the suspect subsequently opened an assault case against Xolani Khumalo, an allegation the party disputes. ActionSA alleges that the suspect has links to drug-dealing activities and claims there may be involvement by corrupt elements within SAPS, an assertion it says is being raised with law enforcement oversight bodies.
Police have declined to comment on the specifics of the case. SAPS told media that the law prevents officers from discussing details about a suspect who has not yet been arrested or formally charged, or where no warrant has been issued.
ActionSA also referred to a more recent incident during a by-election campaign in Etwatwa, where Khumalo allegedly helped identify a drug dealer selling drugs to schoolchildren. The party claims the suspect was detained with drugs but later released without charge.
The party said it would accompany Xolani Khumalo to the police station in a show of support, while reiterating that it expects the legal process to be followed fairly and transparently.
