The Democratic Alliance (DA) can reveal that law enforcement officers with criminal records are still serving in the Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department.
An official audit conducted in 2022 exposed 250 incidents of illegal activity within the EMPD. Of these, 83 cases were awaiting trial, and 167 officers were confirmed to have criminal records.
In response to DA’s recent council questions, the MMC for Community Safety, Cllr Sizakele Masuku, stated that none of the implicated officers have been suspended or dismissed.
The MMC further indicated that a forensic investigation is underway. This is not decisive leadership. It is delayed damage control after years of inaction.
Shockingly, the ANC-EFF coalition has allowed these officers to remain armed and continue enforcing the very laws they violated.
South African legislation, including the Municipal Police Services Regulation, the Criminal Procedure Act, and the SAPS Act, clearly states that no law enforcement official may have a criminal record.
The DA demands the immediate suspension of all EMPD officers with criminal records and disciplinary action.
In addition, the MMC must ensure that the forensic investigation is conducted with full transparency.
The DA will escalate this matter to the South African Public Protector and the Minister of Police to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
We will continue to stand with residents of Ekurhuleni in the fight against corruption until the EMPD is restored to a lawful and ethical police service. A DA-led government will not shield