The North West Department of Health has found no evidence of physical assault in its investigation into the death of 40-year-old mental health care user Quiton DuPlessis at Witrand Specialised Hospital. However, the probe uncovered broader weaknesses in patient care and hospital operations.
Health MEC Jonas Sello Lehari released the findings during a media briefing in Mmabatho on Thursday, following an investigation commissioned after public concern and allegations of abuse surrounding DuPlessis’ death in June 2025.
The investigation team reviewed patient records, interviewed staff, inspected facilities and assessed clinical services, nursing care, security, infrastructure and management systems.
The investigation established that marks initially perceived as bruises could be attributed to complications associated with DuPlessis’ medical conditions. However, the allegation of sexual assault remains inconclusive. The post-mortem report was outstanding when the investigation was finalised, while the matter remains subject to a South African Police Service investigation.
Despite ruling out physical assault, the investigation identified inadequate communication and escalation of patient concerns, staff shortages, infrastructure and security weaknesses, equipment maintenance problems, and challenges with laundry services.
The department reported progress in addressing some of these concerns, including filling 43 of 55 approved nursing positions, installing 26 air conditioners and replacing 41 broken windows.
Security and laundry challenges remain, with only 16 of the 46 required CCTV cameras installed and three of eight laundry machines operational.
A dedicated intervention task team will monitor the implementation of the recommendations for six months.
