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On Thursday morning, I was alerted to CCTV footage that shows a uniformed Joburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) Officer allegedly shoplifting at a Clicks store In Jewel City, Maboneng. 

I immediately contacted the store management and requested the security video footage in order to assist the JMPD to identify the Officer. The JMPD quickly conducted its own preliminary investigation, and positively identified the Officer, who has been immediately suspended, pending the finalisation of the investigation.

Further to this, I have also encouraged the management of the Clicks store to open criminal charges against the Officer.

I applaud the swift response of the JMPD Internal Affairs Unit in dealing with the matter. Incidents like this only widen the trust gap between the JMPD and residents. 

In a focused effort to clean up the JMPD and restore its image as the City’s guardians in blue, under MMC David Tembe’s political leadership, six Officers have been dismissed for various offences in the last few months.

There is no space for criminal elements in the JMPD.

Let this serve as a very strong warning to bad elements that exist across City Departments and Entities. Regardless of who you are, you will be punished to the fullest extent of the law.

The Johannesburg Multi-Party Government can only build a safe and secure city when the City’s Officers are of the highest ethical and professional standard.

Issued by City of Johannesburg Executive Mayor, Cllr Mpho Phalatse, and MMC for Public Safety, Cllr David Tembe