The City of Ekurhuleni has confirmed that disciplinary proceedings have begun against 389 EMPD officers involved in the illegal protest and road blockades that brought parts of the city to a standstill on March 19.

Background: Illegal protest cripples key routes

On March 19, EMPD officers unlawfully blockaded critical highways including:

• R24 Westbound between OR Tambo and Electron Interchange

• N3 Northbound between Heidelberg and Elands

• R21, N12, and N17

The illegal action led to severe traffic congestion, major delays for thousands of commuters, and disruptions at OR Tambo International Airport, a National Key Point, where several flight schedules were affected.

“We strongly condemn this unlawful protest action, as it compromises public safety and disrupts the daily commute of thousands of residents and visitors,” the City said at the time.

The City has now issued pre-dismissal notices to all 389 implicated officers, citing gross misconduct for participating in an unlawful strike. All officers have been suspended with immediate effect, pending disciplinary hearings.

They are required to surrender all City-issued property including vehicles, firearms, and access cards, while investigations are underway.

The City emphasised that EMPD officers fall under essential services, and their participation in the protest directly contravenes the Labour Relations Act.

“This type of conduct undermines public trust, violates national labour laws, and compromises critical services. It will not be tolerated,” said spokesperson zweli Dlamini.

To ensure public safety, the City has activated a Memorandum of Understanding with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to supplement policing functions during the EMPD officers’ suspension.

“The City of Ekurhuleni has reaffirmed its stance on maintaining discipline, accountability, and uninterrupted essential services, promising a thorough and fair process in dealing with all involved,” said spokesperson Zweli Dlamini.