Cape Town - Health MEC Dr Nomafrench Mbombo has condemned the robbery of security personnel at Gugulethu Community Health Centre in the early hours of Tuesday.
In video footage of the incident that has been circulated on social media, two people, one in a wheelchair and the other pushing him, gained access to the premises by impersonating patients seeking healthcare.
As soon as security guards opened the gate, they pulled out their guns while another two joined them.
Health Department spokesperson, Monique Johnstone said: “The four criminals then proceeded to rob the security guards. Soon afterwards they left and thankfully did not reach the trauma unit where the staff and patients were. No one was hurt physically. However, the trauma such actions leave on the victims is long-lasting. Everyone at the facility has been offered counselling and will continue to be supported in their emotional recovery.”
Mbombo said: “I condemn this incident in the strongest terms possible. Our health facilities are essential assets to our communities where residents can seek proper healthcare in a safe environment. These actions not only undermine our facilities' ability to function, but also place our staff and patients’ lives in danger. I hope that the SAPS prioritises this case and ensures that the perpetrators face the full consequences of the law.”
WATCH: Staff at the Gugulethu Community Health Centre were robbed at gunpoint in the early hours of Tuesday, when two people, one in a wheelchair and the other pushing him, gained access to the premises by impersonating patients seeking health care. pic.twitter.com/shWDeadCw9
— Cape Times (@CapeTimesSA) June 13, 2023
Anyone with information on the incident can anonymously contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111, SMS Crime Line on 32211 or use the mobile My SAPS app which can also be used anonymously.
Cape Times