The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has been struck by tragedy following the deaths of two young trainee candidates who were participating in the department’s rigorous recruitment and selection programme. The incidents, which occurred during the physical assessment stage, have raised concerns about the dangers of extreme physical exertion during training, especially under hot weather conditions.
According to JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla, the department began its physical assessments on August 25, 2025 at Ruimsig Stadium, where hundreds of aspiring officers were put through a series of demanding physical fitness tests. Among them was 24-year-old Marvellous Michael Nyambi from Rabie Ridge, who collapsed after suffering from heat exhaustion on Thursday, August 28.
Emergency Management Services (EMS) personnel on site quickly attended to him and transported him to Yusuf Dadoo Hospital for further treatment. Despite the medical team’s efforts, Nyambi sadly passed away the following day, Friday, August 29.
Just days later, another tragedy unfolded. 26-year-old Zwelethu Tekete, from Braamfischerville Phase 1, collapsed during the same recruitment programme on Monday, September 1. He was brought into the stadium unresponsive, prompting EMS officials to immediately initiate CPR. Unfortunately, all attempts to revive him failed, and Tekete was declared dead at the scene.
Images shared by the JMPD on social media during the recruitment drive showed hopeful trainees performing various strenuous exercises such as running, push-ups, and wall-jumping drills. These physically demanding tasks are part of the process to select the fittest candidates for metro policing duties, which require both endurance and resilience.
In an official statement, JMPD expressed its deep sorrow over the loss of the two candidates and extended heartfelt condolences to their families, friends, and communities.
“The well-being and safety of all candidates and officers remain our top priority,” said Fihla. “We are devastated by these losses and stand in solidarity with the families during this painful time.”
The recruitment programme forms part of JMPD’s ambitious plan to enlist 500 new trainees in 2026. Successful applicants are expected to undergo 18 months of intensive training at the JMPD Training Academy, which includes academic modules, law enforcement training, and demanding physical conditioning. Once completed, candidates may be considered for appointment as fully fledged JMPD officers.
During the training period, trainees will be compensated with a monthly stipend in line with the City of Johannesburg’s policy and will be bound by training contracts, Academy rules, and national policing standards as set out by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC).
While the recruitment drive is designed to ensure that only the most capable candidates join the metro police ranks, the recent fatalities have cast a shadow over the process. Questions are being raised about whether enough safeguards are in place to protect recruits from extreme conditions, particularly during strenuous exercises in hot weather.
As JMPD continues its recruitment programme, the deaths of Nyambi and Tekete serve as a somber reminder of the challenges and risks faced by those aspiring to serve in law enforcement. Their passing has not only shaken the department but also highlighted the sacrifices and dangers tied to the pursuit of public safety.
