David Tembe, former head of the Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD), has died.
JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla said Tembe was found unresponsive at his private residence and was declared dead by emergency services on Monday.
Fihla said a post-mortem would be conducted to determine the cause of death.
A DEDICATED PUBLIC SERVANT
Tembe’s four-decade-long career with the City of Johannesburg began in 1981 as a paramedic with Johannesburg Emergency Medical Services. He rose through the ranks to become JMPD Chief in 2017 and later served as MMC for Public Safety from 2021 to 2023.
At the time of his death, Tembe was serving as Strategic Advisor to the current Public Safety MMC, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku.
Fihla said Tembe would be remembered for his dedication to the safety of Johannesburg residents.
“Renowned for his community-centred approach to policing, his unwavering commitment to the welfare of officers, and his relentless pursuit of safer streets, Mr Tembe leaves an enduring legacy in the City’s ongoing fight against crime,” said Fihla.
TRIBUTES
Joburg residents shared tributes, with former city mayor Herman Mashaba describing Tembe’s tenure at JMPD as remarkable.
