Ekurhuleni's mass suspension of police officers sparks concerns

PUBLIC SAFETY AT RISK

- MASABATA MKWANANZI

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.