Ekurhuleni's mass suspension of police officers sparks safety concerns

The controversial decision by the City of Ekurhuleni to suspend over 300 officers from the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD) has ignited a fiery response from Gauteng government officials, particularly within the portfolio committee on Community Safety. 

The abrupt action has raised alarms over its potential impact on public security and law enforcement within the region, leading to urgent calls for immediate contingency measures.

This follows the strike, during which 389 EMPD officers protested over overtime pay and salary adjustments on March 19, causing major traffic jams on arterial routes.

The protest disrupted key routes, including the R24 westbound between the OR Tambo and Electron interchanges, and all lanes of the N3 northbound between Heidelberg and Elands. 

The blockades caused severe delays and traffic congestion.

Chairperson of the Community Safety Portfolio Committee, Bandile Masuku, acknowledged the city's right to take disciplinary measures against employees accused of serious misconduct. 

However, he warned that such mass suspensions could leave communities and roads inadequately policed, increasing the risk of disorder and jeopardising public safety. 

“The sudden reduction in law enforcement capacity may leave residents vulnerable and exacerbate challenges in maintaining order on the roads and in communities across the City,” he said.

Masuku's concerns echo the fears of many residents, who rely on the EMPD for traffic management and enforcement of municipal by-laws. 

In light of these suspensions, he urged Ekurhuleni's leadership to act swiftly to mitigate the ramifications of this significant loss in law enforcement personnel. 

“A prolonged impasse between the Municipality and its employees will only deepen service delivery challenges and undermine public safety,” he emphasised, adding that the Committee would continue to closely monitor the situation.

Zweli Dlamini, the municipality's spokesperson, responded to the outcry by outlining the ongoing processes connected to the officers' suspensions. 

He stated that the affected employees have a 48-day window to submit their responses to the determination notices before any further action is taken. 

“Everyone will be scrutinised on their merit, and decisions will be taken based on what is presented before us,” Dlamini explained, highlighting the city's commitment to fairness in disciplinary procedures.

Dlamini also stated that pending the outcome of the officer's 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”.

However, Masuku's remarks reflect a growing frustration within the government, as the Committee emphasises the urgent need for local authorities to expedite the resolution of this labour dispute. 

While Dlamini acknowledged the complexities of the current situation, he pointed out that preventative structures, such as local labour forums, are in place.

“The City is currently collaborating with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to ensure continued policing services, as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the City and the Minister of Police,” he added.

These platforms allow discussions between the municipality, administration, and union representatives on employee issues. 

Despite this, he conceded that the severity of recent actions came as an unexpected challenge, stating, “One would want them to see that it would be nice to have all the processes that are outlined in dealing with matters of employee wellness and employee conditions exhausted before such an action can take place.”

The news also sparked mixed reactions on the social media platform X, with some users suggesting the suspension was being quietly downplayed, while others felt it was justified.

@Tlotlisom_ commented: “Over 300 EMPD officers face pre-dismissal after an unprotected strike on 19 March. While employers may act, dismissals must follow a fair process under SA labour law—or risk reversal by the CCMA or Labour Court.”

Another user, @Mnca_mnce, added: “They signed their appointment contracts knowing very well that they are an essential service and are not allowed to strike. And it's the second time they're doing this. Even JMPD officers did this, blocking M2 in 2023.”

Meanwhile, @mersarius criticised the action, calling it unacceptable: “This is criminal behaviour from EMPD!! Blocking traffic affecting normal people because they want more money.”

The Star

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