Cape Town – The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has confirmed that two candidates died while taking part in the Metro Police Officer recruitment physical assessment.
The physical assessment, held on 25 August, tested candidates’ endurance and fitness as part of the recruitment process for new Metro Police Officers.
Today marked the beginning of the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) Metro Police Officer recruitment physical assessment! 🏃♀️🏃♂️ Thousands of dedicated applicants will be tested on their physical endurance and fitness.
What’s Next?
Successful candidates will… pic.twitter.com/x1MECnM4Zu
— Jo’burg Metro Police Department – JMPD (@JoburgMPD) August 25, 2025
According to TimesLIVE, JMPD spokesperson Xolani Fihla confirmed the death of 24-year-old Marvellous Michael Nyambi from Rabie Ridge, who collapsed from heat exhaustion.
He was treated on site by Emergency Management Services (EMS) before being transported to Yusuf Dadoo Hospital, where he later died.
“Nyambi passed away on August 29,” said Fihla.
He also confirmed that another candidate, Zwelethu Tekete, 26, from Braamfischerville Phase 1 – also died during the physical assessment programme.
“On September 1, during the recruitment process at the stadium, he was brought into the stadium unresponsive.
“EMS officers initiated CPR, but their attempts to revive him were unsuccessful. Tekete was declared deceased at the scene”, said Fihla.
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Picture: Facebook/Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department – JMPD
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Compiled by Anda Tolibadi