JMPD recruitment drive ends in tragedy as two candidates die

Zuko Komisa

Two young men have died from separate incidents of heat exhaustion and unresponsiveness during a physically demanding recruitment programme for the Johannesburg Metro Police.
The deaths occurred while the department was processing thousands of applicants for 500 trainee positions, highlighting serious safety concerns during the rigorous selection process.
The JMPD has expressed its condolences and stressed that candidate safety is a priority, even as it continues its recruitment drive for the 2026 intake.

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) has confirmed the deaths of two trainee candidates who died while participating in its recent recruitment programme.

The first candidate, Marvellous Michael Nyambi, 24, from Rabie Ridge, fell ill from heat exhaustion on 28 August at Ruimsig Stadium. He was attended to by emergency medical services before being taken to Yusuf Dadoo Hospital, where he passed away the following day.

In a separate incident, Zwelethu Tekete, 26, from Braamfischerville, was found unresponsive at the same stadium on 1 September. Emergency services personnel attempted CPR but were unable to revive him, and he was declared dead at the scene.

JMPD spokesperson, Xolani Fihla, extended condolences to the families and friends of both men. “The wellbeing and safety of all candidates and officers remain our priority,” he stated.

Photographs from the recruitment drive show candidates performing strenuous physical exercises, including running, push-ups, and scaling a training wall.

The JMPD is currently sifting through thousands of applications to select 500 new trainees for its 2026 intake. Successful candidates will undergo an 18-month training course, during which they will receive a stipend. Upon completion, they will be considered for appointment as fully qualified officers.