David Tembe, the former chief of the JMPD and a former MMC of Public Safety in the CoJ, was found dead at his home on November 24.

At this stage, the circumstances around his death are unclear.

The office of Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, the MMC for Public Safety, released a statement mourning Tembe’s death.

“It is with profound sadness that the Department of Public Safety announces the passing of David Tembe, a strategic advisor to the MMC for Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku.

“Tembe was found unresponsive at his residence yesterday. Emergency services responded promptly, but declared him dead at the scene. A postmortem examination will be conducted to establish the cause of death.

“Over a career spanning more than four decades, Tembe served the residents of Johannesburg with dedication and integrity. He began his journey in 1981 as a paramedic with the Johannesburg Emergency Medical Services, rose through the ranks to become JMPD chief in 2017, and served as an MMC from 2021 to 2023. Most recently, he contributed his experience and expertise as a strategic advisor.

“Renowned for his community-centred approach to policing, his commitment to the welfare of officers, and his relentless pursuit of safer streets, Tembe leaves a legacy in the city’s fight against crime.

“Tshwaku and the public safety cluster extend their condolences to Tembe’s family, friends and former colleagues.
“The Department of Public Safety stands united in grief and in gratitude for Tembe’s lifelong service to the people of this city. Funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced in due course.”

Taking to X, former mayor Herman Mashaba said he was saddened to learn of Tembe’s death.

“I worked with him during my tenure as the mayor. He did remarkable work in combating criminality and strengthening the rule of law across the city.

“My condolences to his family, loved ones and all who served alongside him,” he said.