Stanza Bopape Community Health Centre’s WBPHCOT faced an armed hijacking during routine household visits in Section 14, Mamelodi. Image: iStock
SAPS rescues health team from hijacking
SAPS receives praise from Gauteng Health for swift response to Wednesday’s health team hijacking incident.
Stanza Bopape Community Health Centre’s WBPHCOT faced an armed hijacking during routine household visits in Section 14, Mamelodi. Image: iStock
The South African Police Service (SAPS) received commendation from the Gauteng Department of Health for swiftly responding to a hijacking incident concerning health team on Wednesday morning.
The Ward Based Primary Healthcare Outreach Team (WBPHCOT) from the Stanza Bopape Community Health Centre fell victim to an armed hijacking during their routine household visits in Section 14, Mamelodi, at around 10:30.
ALSO READ: Zikalala slams ‘barbaric’ hijacking of on duty nurses
During the hijacking, two assailants seized the state vehicle. They robbed the health team of their personal belongings, including cell phones and cash.
SAPS foils hijacking: Recovers health team vehicle in Mamelodi
Later in the day, Extension 11 in Mamelodi saw the SAPS efficiently recovering the hijacked white VW Polo sedan with fraudulent number plates. The Department filed a case of robbery and theft at the Mamelodi East Police Station.
ALSO READ: NSFAS receives over 1.5 million applications for 2024 academic year
In the aftermath of the traumatic hijacking incident, affected health team staff members are receiving counseling.
“This attack happens at the time when the department is strengthening its outreach programme to townships, informal settlements and hostels (TISH) communities which is meant to improve access to health services to previously disadvantaged areas,” said the Gauteng Department of Health in a statement.
ALSO READ: Tragic drowning during school excursion in Gauteng
Collaborative approach needed to protect healthcare
Addressing assaults on healthcare workers necessitates a collaborative approach, with communities and law enforcement working together.
These attacks often transpire in the very communities targeted for expanded health services.
ALSO READ: 8-hour power outage to hit 32 areas in Johannesburg on Sunday
The Department strongly condemns assaults on staff. It urges society to unite against these crimes, recognising their severe impact on sustaining health services in communities.
