Major traffic disruptions and delays gripped sections of the R21 in Ekurhuleni on Wednesday due to a wildcat strike by city metro police officers.
The protest also affected several other highways, including the N12 and N17, with additional impact noted on the N3 southbound in the Vosloorus area.
A memorandum of demand outlined the grievances of the employees.
These include issues such as salary adjustments, capped overtime, and allegations of unfair labor practices.
According to the memorandum, EMPD officers work 24 days a month with reduced rest periods and lower salaries compared to their counterparts in neighboring municipalities.
Social media videos depicted official EMPD vehicles blocking highway on-ramps and disrupting traffic flow on the R21 southbound.
The City of Ekurhuleni denounced the strike as illegal.
Protesters were expected to gather at the Germiston Civic Centre to seek a meeting with Ekurhuleni Mayor Nkosindiphile Xhakaza.
Sello Maremane, spokesperson for Gauteng Traffic Police, advised motorists to avoid the R21 southbound between Pomona Road and OR Tambo International Airport, as well as the N17 towards Boksburg.
The employees have demanded a response from the Mayor, City Manager, and relevant department heads within seven days.
Meanwhile, the City of Ekurhuleni expressed concern over the ongoing protest, labeling it illegal.
City spokesperson Zweli Dlamini condemned the strike and stated that they are collaborating with law enforcement to swiftly resolve the issue.
“Preliminary indications suggest that the illegal strike stems from recent reductions in overtime allocations for EMPD officers. These reductions are part of the city’s broader financial sustainability strategy aimed at ensuring responsible fiscal management and efficient service delivery,” Dlamini said.
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