The relationship between Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa and his deputy Fikile Mbalula has apparently become explosive with the two nearly coming to blows.

Both are senior ANC members serving on the ruling party?s National Working Committee.

The duo issued a joint statement saying the allegations were hogwash and malicious rumours circulated by faceless people aimed at derailing the fight against crime.

A number of extremely senior officials in the SAPS and the police ministry confirmed to Eyewitness News the relationship between the two had deteriorated considerably.

It is understood the tipping point was a fiery argument between the two after Mbalula was invited to a police parade by a deputy national commissioner.

Mthethwa got wind of the invitation and summoned Mbalula to his office where the two had an argument about who had more authority in the ANC.

One official described the standoff as "ugly", saying the environment in the ministry was "polluted with emotions and egos".