Johannesburg – The City of Johannesburg is in mourning following the unexpected death of David Tembe, the former Chief of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD). Tembe, a veteran of public safety with a career spanning over four decades, was found "unresponsive" at his private residence on Sunday.
The circumstances surrounding Tembe's death remain unclear, and authorities are awaiting the results of a post-mortem examination to determine the cause.
At the time of his passing, Tembe was serving as a strategic adviser to the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety in the City of Johannesburg, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku. Tshwaku's office confirmed the news of Tembe's death to IOL News on Monday morning, leaving colleagues and those who worked with him in shock.
"We can confirm that Mr Tembe has passed away after he was found dead at his home in the early hours of this morning," said Alex Mandlazi, Tshwaku's spokesperson.
Mandlazi further stated that the City is awaiting the results of a post-mortem to establish the cause of death. The family is being given the space and time needed to process this devastating news. "We will provide a detailed update afterwards," he added.
Tembe's extensive career in public safety is well-documented. "He previously served as JMPD chief, was a former head of department for Public Safety, former chief of the national traffic police, and former MMC for Public Safety. He was currently working as a strategic adviser to the MMC," Mandlazi explained.
Despite the confirmation from the MMC's office, Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi stated that police had not yet been officially informed of the incident.
JMPD spokesperson Superintendent Xolani Fihla also confirmed that the department had received reports of Tembe's death. Fihla clarified that while Tembe was a former JMPD Chief, he was no longer employed by the department but rather by the MMC’s office at the time of his passing.
In a statement released later on Monday, MMC Tshwaku expressed his profound sorrow at the loss of Tembe.
"It is with profound sadness that the City of Johannesburg Department of Public Safety announces the passing of Mr David Tembe, Strategic Adviser to the Member of the Mayoral Committee for Public Safety," Tshwaku said.
Emergency services were called to Tembe's residence on Sunday after he was discovered unresponsive. Despite their efforts, he was declared dead at the scene. A post-mortem examination is scheduled to determine the precise cause of death.
Tembe's dedication to public safety began in 1981 when he joined Johannesburg Emergency Medical Services as a paramedic. Over the years, he rose through the ranks, eventually becoming the JMPD chief in 2017. He also served as the MMC for Public Safety from 2021 to 2023, before taking on the role of strategic advisor.
Tshwaku lauded Tembe's contributions to the city, highlighting his commitment to the community and the welfare of officers.
"Renowned for his community-centred approach to policing, his unwavering commitment to officer welfare, and his relentless pursuit of safer streets, Mr Tembe leaves an enduring legacy in the City’s ongoing fight against crime," Tshwaku stated.
Tshwaku extended his deepest condolences to Tembe's family, friends, and former colleagues during this difficult time. Details regarding funeral and memorial arrangements will be announced in due course, he added.
David Tembe's passing marks a significant loss for the City of Johannesburg and the public safety sector as a whole. His decades of service and commitment to creating safer communities will be remembered by many. His expertise and guidance as a strategic advisor will be sorely missed by MMC Tshwaku and the entire Department of Public Safety.
The news of Tembe's death has prompted an outpouring of grief and tributes from colleagues, former associates, and members of the public. Many have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of working with him. He is remembered as a dedicated and passionate leader who made a significant impact on the lives of countless individuals.
Follow Us on Twitter
