Picture: Tshepong Hospital in Klerksdorp/Google
By OBAKENG MAJE
North West MEC for Health, Madoda Sambatha said they condemn with the strongest terms possible, the armed robbery incident that took place at Tshepong Hospital in Klerksdorp on Wednesday. It is alleged that doctors at the hospital were having their normal early briefings when four armed men entered a boardroom they were in.
They pointed them with guns and demanded their phones, money, and any valuable possession. Sambatha, who visited the hospital for a Smile Week launch was immediately briefed about the incident on his arrival.
“I am questioning the security company and demanding an explanation on how these men were able to pass through the security gates with guns. The security company indicated that, all people who enter the hospital
premises are checked but failed to explain how these men entered the facility with guns.
“Fortunately, one of the men was apprehended still within the hospital premises. The police were called and he was arrested. The police have taken over the case for investigation,” he said.
Sambatha further said a debriefing session was held with the affected doctors with a view to providing counselling services. He added that Matlosana is known to be having a high rate of gangsterism, and health facilities are often confronted with such incidents.
“For this reason, we call on the law enforcement agencies to help stamp out gangsterism in the area and ensure the safety of health facilities,” said Sambatha.
Meanwhile, the North West police spokesperson, Col Adele Myburgh said: “Yes, I can confirm that the police are aware of the matter. One person was handed over to the police by the security guards at the hospital. He is currently being questioned by the police.
“The initial investigation indicates that they were three suspects. No one was injured during the commotion.”
The Guardian 