City of Ekurhuleni takes legal action against illegal strike of EMPD officers
Ekurhuleni officials have announced firm legal and disciplinary steps against 389 metro police officers who participated in a disruptive illegal strike.
The City of Ekurhuleni (CoE) has taken decisive steps to address the unlawful strike action by members of the EMPD, which brought major transport routes to a standstill and compromised public safety in March.
Senior city officials detailed the events of March 19, when EMPD officers engaged in an illegal protest that blocked the R21, N12, N17, and N3 highways, severely disrupting access to OR Tambo International Airport – a national key point.
The Executive Mayor of Ekurhuleni, Nkosindiphile Xhakaza, said commuters were stranded, businesses disrupted, and they used city-issued vehicles and firearms, violating municipal and national regulations.
“This kind of behaviour is not only illegal but deeply irresponsible. EMPD officers are essential service providers and prohibited by law from engaging in industrial action,” Xhakaza said.
Context of the dispute
The protest was reportedly fuelled by discontent over reduced overtime allocations, an issue raised by the South African Municipal Workers’ Union (SAMWU).
However, city officials have clarified that Ekurhuleni already offers one of the most competitive pay structures for metro police officers in the country.
The City of Tshwane’s recent efforts to align its officer salaries with Ekurhuleni’s further highlight this disparity.
“It is important to understand that overtime is not a right, but a privilege tied to operational needs and performance. We focus on accountability and results. If crime statistics do not improve, we must question continued expenditure on overtime,” Xhakaza explained.
Consequences and investigations
The city issued pre-dismissal notices to 389 EMPD officers involved in the protest.
Each officer has been allowed to submit written representations, with the deadline of May 9, following dialogue with SAMWU.
“This is not a blanket dismissal. We will consider each case on its own merits, including expressions of remorse,” Xhakaza stressed.
The city also confirmed it was investigating reports of threats and intimidation against officers who chose not to participate in the strike and have continued to perform their duties. SAPS and the Hawks are actively involved in these investigations.
“Let it be clear; we will not tolerate intimidation and unlawful conduct. Those found guilty will face legal consequences,” he said.
Ongoing dialogue and labour relations
Despite the tension, the city reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining open and constructive communication with organised labour.
A meeting with SAMWU on May 6 resulted in a mutual commitment to resolve disputes through the Local Labour Forum (LLF).
“We value dialogue, but will not compromise on law and order. The city has also reaffirmed that it recognises only SAMWU and IMATU as legitimate union representatives, denouncing fringe groups like MECSU for exploiting workers’ livelihoods for political gain,” Xhakaza said.
Strengthening the force
The city plans to transition EMPD to a shift system to improve efficiency and address long-standing issues related to salaries, night shifts, and standby allowances.
Additionally, we will soon deploy approximately 1 500 traffic wardens and newly trained EMPD recruits to bolster law enforcement efforts across Ekurhuleni.
Collaboration with SAPS, CPFs and private security entities will ensure uninterrupted public safety services.
A firm stance on accountability
The city concluded its briefing by reaffirming its commitment to upholding the law and ensuring the safety of its residents.
“To the people of Ekurhuleni: We will not allow lawlessness to prevail. We are acting to restore order, strengthen our institutions, and ensure we use every rand of public money effectively and responsibly,” Xhakaza concluded.
