JMPD's Tembe had a 'calling he lived out fully,' say grieving family

The family of the late former Johannesburg metro police chief, David Tembe, said his passion for public safety was a calling he lived out fully.

Earlier on Saturday families and friends gathered at the central Johannesburg college in Alexandra to bid their final goodbyes.

Tembe was found dead at his Johannesburg home on Monday.

The family of Tembe said there have been conflicting reports about his cause of death including claims that he died by suicide which they insist are untrue.

They said Tembe had been ill, and there was nothing suspicious about his passing.

Speaking at Tembe’s funeral, his daughter, Khensani Tembe, said she wants her father’s life to be honoured.

"My father is more than a public figure he was a protector, a leader, a mentor, a pillar of safety for countless families across our nation, he carried his responsibility with dignity and passion," said daughter.

Tembe is survived by his siblings, children and grandchildren.