The North West Health MEC Sello Lehari has assured residents of Bapong, near Brits, that security will be reinforced at the local Community Healthcare Centre, after a security officer was attacked by a group of people on Sunday morning.
According to the department, five men brought an injured patient to the clinic and demanded immediate medical attention for the person.
The department said the group was unruly, allegedly intoxicated and refused to be searched by security officials at the gate.
The men allegedly assaulted a security official who was trying to intervene and maintain order at the facility.
Following the incident, Lehari convened an urgent meeting with relevant stakeholders in Bapong, where they discussed the way forward and security measures which have to be implemented with immediate effect.
“A criminal case has been officially opened, with a case number.
All healthcare professionals including security personnel that were on duty on the day, are afforded psycho-social support
Security is being reinforced at the facility, including sending more arm guards.
Security is being equipped with all necessary tools, including metal detectors
Enhance working community centered campaigns on the delivery of healthcare services,” read a statement from the department.
Meanwhile, Lehari has sent a stern warning to those that are frequenting healthcare facilities in the wee hours, after consuming alcohol.
“Our healthcare professionals are doing so much to save lives.
The last thing we need is individuals, who have consumed alcohol, come and cause chaos in our facilities, demanding to skip the queue.
They will face the full might of the law, and we will set a good example with these ones who assume that they are more important than other patients,” warned Lehari.
Furthermore, he called for calm and assured residents that the facility is safe and remains operational.
The MEC appealed to residents to help police identify the people that committed the incident.
