CoE acts against EMPD officers over disruptive protest

The City of Ekurhuleni has commenced disciplinary measures against 389 EMPD officers following their participation in an illegal strike and blockade of critical highways on March 19.

The affected EMPD officers face pre-dismissal processes due to severe misconduct, including the illegal blockade of the R21, N12, N17, and N3 highways.

This unlawful action significantly disrupted traffic flow, severely inconvenienced thousands of commuters, and hindered access to the OR Tambo International Airport, a designated national key point, impacting flight schedules and broader regional connectivity.

As EMPD officers, these individuals are classified under essential services, mandated to uphold public safety and order. According to the city, their participation in prohibited strike action constitutes gross misconduct, undermining public trust and violating labour laws as stipulated in the Labour Relations Act.

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All implicated officers have been issued pre-dismissal notices and are suspended from duty pending the outcome of their disciplinary hearings.

They are required to submit any city-issued equipment, including vehicles, firearms, and official access cards, until the conclusion of the disciplinary process.

The city is currently collaborating with the SAPS to ensure continued policing services, as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the city and the Minister of Police.

The CoE reiterates its commitment to maintaining discipline, accountability, and ensuring that essential services personnel uphold their responsibility to public safety and order.

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