The City of Johannesburg department of public safety is mourning the passing of David Tembe, strategic advisor to the MMC for Public Safety Dr Mgcini Tshwaku.

Tembe, who also served as the former Chief of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) and MMC for Public Safety, was found unresponsive at his private residence on November 24.

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Tshwaku said emergency services responded promptly, but he was pronounced deceased at the scene. “A post-mortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.”

Over a remarkable career spanning more than four decades, Tembe dedicated himself to public service in Johannesburg.

He began his journey in 1981 as a paramedic with Johannesburg Emergency Medical Services, later rising through the ranks to be appointed JMPD Chief in 2017.

From 2021 to 2023, he served as MMC for Public Safety, and, until his passing, continued to lend his expertise as strategic advisor to the current MMC.

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Known for his community-focused approach to policing, Tembe was widely respected for his dedication to the welfare of officers and his tireless efforts to make Johannesburg streets safer.

“His work has left a lasting impact on the city’s public safety initiatives,” said Tshwaku.

Tshwaku and the entire public safety cluster have extended their deepest condolences to Tembe’s family, friends, and colleagues. “The department of public safety stands united in grief and gratitude for David Tembe’s lifelong service to the people of this city.”

He said funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced in due course.

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