Disgruntled EMPD officers from all the Ekurhuleni regions blocked major highways in and out of the City of Ekurhuleni this morning, causing major congestion and thereby badly impacting the city’s economy.
It’s understood that they are demanding salary adjustments, and are upset over the city’s decision to scrap overtime payments for members of the EMPD.

Blocked routes include the Gillooly’s interchange, N12 west between Putfontein and Kingsway off-ramp and Daveyton off-ramp, R21 between R23 and R25 and the Benoni off-ramp, and the N17 near Carnival City,

Their action, which started this morning, has left thousands of commuters stranded, and unable to reach their respective destinations on time.

In a statement posted on the EMPD WhatsApp group, EMPD spokesperson Thabiso Makgato confirmed that major routes are being blocked by protesting officers, causing significant traffic disruptions.
However, she could not immediately confirm whether the action stems from grievances over the cancelation of overtime.
“We have been made aware of the situation as a city through the media and public complaints. We are sourcing more information and will issue a formal communique as soon as details are available,” said metro spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.

Information received suggests that all the members who have embarked on the protest will later head to the Germiston municipal offices to hand over a memorandum of grievances.
This story will be updated when further details become available.

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