Traffic SA: EMPD Strike
Pretoria, South Africa – March 18, 2025
Traffic in Pretoria came to a standstill on Wednesday morning as Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) officers staged a protest on the R21 Southbound. The demonstration, which involves blocking the highway with marked police vehicles, is in response to a recent decision by the City of Ekurhuleni to cut their overtime hours from 40 to 16 hours per month.
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Why Are EMPD Officers Protesting?
EMPD officers argue that the overtime reductions, effective from March 1, significantly impact their ability to perform their duties. According to a report by the Kempton Express, officers claim that the city has not taken into account the reasons behind their overtime requests, which often involve responding to emergencies, managing road safety, and handling crime prevention tasks.
The officers had initially planned to picket and hand over a memorandum to the mayor on February 27. However, the City of Ekurhuleni obtained a court order preventing essential service workers from striking over these cuts. The Labour Court ruled that essential workers, such as police officers, cannot legally engage in protest action. A final ruling on the matter is expected on March 20.
Traffic Disruptions and Road Closures
The protest has caused significant delays, particularly for motorists traveling between Bapsfontein and Voortrekker Road. Commuters heading toward OR Tambo International Airport or Ekurhuleni are advised to take alternative routes, such as the N1 Southbound.
Other affected routes include:
- N12 (Springs/Dayveton off-ramp toward Johannesburg)
- R21 (Between R23 and R25)
- N17 (Carnival City area)
- N12 (Between Putfontein and Kingsway off-ramps)
Authorities are monitoring the situation, but delays are expected to persist until the protest is resolved.
City of Ekurhuleni’s Response
City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini acknowledged the protests and stated that officials are gathering more information before releasing an official statement. He urged motorists to stay updated through official channels and consider alternative routes.
Meanwhile, the city maintains that the overtime cuts are a necessary cost-saving measure. However, EMPD officers argue that the decision undermines their ability to provide essential services and compromises public safety.
What Happens Next?
With the Labour Court set to deliver its final ruling on March 20, EMPD officers remain firm in their demand for overtime reinstatement. The city’s leadership will need to find a resolution that balances budget constraints with the need for an effective and well-supported police force.
For now, Pretoria motorists are urged to plan ahead, expect delays, and stay informed on developments regarding the EMPD protest.
