- The theft at the Motherwell Community Health Center in Gkebarha forced the closure of some services and sent staff into consultation on Friday.
- Emergency patients in Gkeberha were sent to Dora Nginza Hospital, and doctors from the Motherwell Clinic were sent there to help.
The criminals broke into the Motherwell Community Health Center in the Motherwell township of Gkebarha in the early hours of Friday morning. They stole several computers and other equipment and damaged parts of the building.
The Eastern Cape Health Department confirmed the theft. The employees are shocked by this incident. Some employees asked for counseling before returning to night duty. Others called in sick for the day shift.
The disruption led to temporary closure of services at some units.
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“Unfortunately this has resulted in temporary service disruption to some units, including the trauma and midwifery delivery units,” the department said.
Emergency medical services were asked to take patients to Dora Nginza Hospital. Doctors from the Motherwell Community Health Center were also sent to the hospital to help treat patients.
Repair work began immediately after the break-in. Teams repaired damaged doors and gates, secured building entrances, installed new security locks and strengthened access control measures.
“The safety of healthcare workers, patients and public property remains the priority,” the department said.
Officers are working with the Motherwell Clinic Committee, local ward councilors and community groups to address safety concerns. The department is also speaking to the SAPS about the crime.
A meeting has been planned between district health leaders and SAPS to discuss strengthened security at health facilities.
“Criminal acts against healthcare facilities not only cause property damage; they directly impact the communities that depend on our services for health and often life-saving care,” the department said.