By Marcus Moloko
Former Johannesburg Metro Police Department Chief David Tembe has been found dead at his home.
Details surrounding his passing remain unclear, although it is understood he was unwell.
Tembe served as the head of the JMPD until 2020 and stepped down from the role. He continued to play a role in public safety. He was the previous Member of the Mayoral Committee (MMC) strategic advisor for Public Safety under Mayor Mpho Phalatse.
His term ended in June 2023.
In November 2025, Tembe was seen conducting outreach initiatives with the Public Safety officers, which indicates he was present in a new, different capacity than his previous one as the sitting MMC.
After serving for close to 20 years with the Emergency Management Services, Tembe was appointed Director of Operations for the JMPD in 2003.
During his time with JMPD, he was awarded and commended by the National Department
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