Nearly 300 Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Police Department (EMPD) vehicles are currently out of service, raising concerns about the metro’s ability to maintain visible policing, enforce municipal bylaws and respond effectively to crime.
The issue has renewed concerns about public safety after Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Jacob Mamabolo revealed that 297 of the department’s 1,498 vehicles are unavailable due to mechanical breakdowns, maintenance, and accident damage. Only 1,201 vehicles are currently operational.
In a joint response by the City of Ekurhuleni and the Gauteng Department of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (Cogta), Mamabolo said the grounded vehicles include those that have developed mechanical faults, are undergoing routine maintenance or repairs, or have been damaged in accidents. Their unavailability has reduced the number of patrol vehicles available for visible policing, traffic enforcement, and rapid response across Ekurhuleni.
“Maintaining a reliable fleet remains critical to ensuring effective visibility, rapid response, and public safety across the City,” Mamabolo said, adding that the City should continue strengthening the management of its operational resources.
