Johannesburg – The City of Johannesburg Department of Public Safety has announced the passing of Mr David Tembe, a veteran public safety official who served the city for over four decades.
Tembe, who was Strategic Advisor to the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) for Public Safety, Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, was found unresponsive at his private residence on Monday.
Emergency services responded immediately, but he was pronounced dead at the scene.
A post-mortem examination is planned to determine the exact cause of death.
*City of Johannesburg Department of Public Safety Mourns the Passing of Mr David Tembe*
It is with profound sadness that the City of Johannesburg Department of Public Safety announces the passing of Mr David Tembe, Strategic Advisor to the Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC)… pic.twitter.com/qwzOi21B8A
— Cmsr Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, PhD (@MTshwaku) November 25, 2025
Tembe’s career in public service began in 1981 as a paramedic with Johannesburg Emergency Medical Services.
He rose through the ranks to become Chief of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) in 2017 and later served as MMC for Public Safety from 2021 to 2023. Most recently, he contributed his expertise as Strategic Advisor to the current MMC.
Known for his community-focused approach to policing, Tembe was widely respected for his dedication to both public safety and the welfare of his officers.
Dr Mgcini Tshwaku, MMC for Public Safety, paid tribute to Tembe, saying: “Mr David Tembe served Johannesburg with unmatched commitment and integrity. His guidance, wisdom, and tireless dedication to safer streets leave an enduring legacy for the city and its residents.”
I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former JMPD Chief and Joburg Public Safety MMC, David Tembe.
I had the privilege of working with him during my tenure as the Mayor of Joburg, where he did remarkable work in combating criminality and strengthening the Rule of Law… pic.twitter.com/zObhFKp3be
— Herman Mashaba (@HermanMashaba) November 25, 2025
The Department of Public Safety also extended its condolences, stating: “We stand united in grief and heartfelt gratitude for Mr David Tembe’s lifelong service to the people of this city. His contributions to public safety will not be forgotten.”
Funeral and memorial arrangements will be shared in due course.
Today we lost a friend…
We are deeply saddened by the passing of Former JMPD Chief David Tembe, a friend, a colleague, and a committed crime fighter who dedicated his life to serving and protecting the people of Johannesburg.
Chief Tembe was found at his home earlier today.… pic.twitter.com/kJ76sSagOg
— Vision Tactical (@visiontactical) November 25, 2025
RIP, David Tembe.@CityofJoburgZA Speaker of Council mourns the passing of former JMPD Chief and MMC for Public Safety.
“David Tembe represented the very best of public service. He understood that safety was not only about enforcement, but about humanity, dignity…” pic.twitter.com/yWDn3GmuCR
— Joburg Speaker of Council (@JoburgSpeaker) November 25, 2025
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
