The City of Ekurhuleni is embroiled in a major labour dispute after issuing pre-dismissal notices and suspensions to 389 Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officers who staged an illegal strike and highway blockade on 19 March 2025. The mass action, which saw officers use state vehicles to block key routes such as the R21, N12, N17, and N3, brought morning traffic to a standstill, delayed flights, and disrupted business operations across Gauteng, particularly around OR Tambo International Airport.
In response to the protest, which was sparked by grievances over drastic overtime pay cuts, salary disparities, and working conditions, the city suspended all officers involved and demanded they surrender city-issued firearms, vehicles, and access cards pending disciplinary hearings. Ekurhuleni officials emphasized that EMPD officers are classified as essential service workers and are prohibited from striking under the Labour Relations Act, calling their participation a “betrayal of public trust” and a serious breach of duty.
Union Prepares Legal Challenge
The South African Municipal Workers’ Union (Samwu), representing the affected officers, has condemned the city’s actions and is preparing to mount a legal challenge. Samwu’s Ekurhuleni regional secretary, Tshephang Langa, confirmed receipt of the pre-dismissal letters and said the union is seeking more time to respond and will exhaust all internal avenues before determining its next steps. The union argues that the city’s response is heavy-handed and threatens to escalate the dispute.
Public Safety Concerns
The mass suspension has sparked concerns among Gauteng government officials and residents about the potential impact on public safety. Bandile Masuku, chair of the Gauteng Community Safety Portfolio Committee, warned that the sudden reduction in law enforcement capacity could leave communities vulnerable and hamper traffic management and by-law enforcement. He urged city leadership to implement urgent contingency measures to mitigate the risks posed by the loss of hundreds of officers.
Officers’ Demands and Public Reaction
The officers’ demands, outlined in a memorandum to EMPD management, included reversing overtime cuts, addressing pay disparities with other metro police departments, and improving working conditions, especially for high-risk units. While some members of the public sympathise with the officers’ grievances, others have condemned the protest as reckless, with civil rights groups calling for the immediate dismissal of those involved.
Tensions Remain High
Attempts to stage further protests have so far failed, but tensions remain high within the EMPD ranks. Many officers are reportedly dissatisfied with the city’s stance, and union leaders are under pressure to defend their members. The situation remains fluid as legal processes and disciplinary hearings unfold.
