An explosive relationship between Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa and his deputy Fikile Mbalula has nearly come to blows but the ministry is strongly denying the allegations.

Several sources have told Eyewitness News the men are battling one another over who has more authority in the ANC but the duo has issued a joint statement denying this.

They say allegations their relationship has deteriorated are hogwash and malicious rumour circulated by faceless people.

A number of senior officials in the SAPS and the police ministry have confirmed to Eyewitness News the situation is unhealthy.

It is understood the tipping point was a fiery argument between the two after Mbalula was invited to a police parade which Mthethwa did not authorise.

The ministry's Hangwani Mulaudzi said these claims were not true: "We are deeply disturbed by these kinds of rumours. However, these kinds of rumours will not derail us."

The duo says they anticipated an unreceptive environment from people who did not want change within the police service.