‘It’s not a luxury vehicle’: Patients robbed in hijacking

On Tuesday evening, an armed suspect targeted a patient transport vehicle near Makapanstad in North West, South Africa. The incident occurred shortly after the vehicle had delivered an elderly patient who had been discharged from Jubilee Hospital. The suspect pointed a firearm at the driver, demanding his cellphone and wallet. He then ordered the five patients in the vehicle to exit and was instructed to lie on the ground during the robbery. Five suspects fled the scene with the department's vehicle.

The MEC (Minister of Economic Development, Environment and Infrastructure) expressed shock and outrage over the crime, emphasizing that a patient transport vehicle is not a luxury item but a critical public health resource. Said resources are meant for safely transporting patients, including the elderly and vulnerable, to healthcare facilities.

The incident deeply disturbed the MEC, who condemned the senseless act and emphasized the lack of justification for hijacking vehicles that contribute to community welfare. The recovery of the vehicle was facilitated through the activation of tracking systems, and it was found near Rabosula village. The suspects were apprehended, and a criminal case was initiated at the scene of the hijacking.

The department swiftly arranged alternative transport for the remaining patients, ensuring their safe return to their hometowns. The MEC called on the community to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to combat crime and protect public infrastructure and essential service providers. He urged the community to report any criminal activities targeting healthcare workers, patients, and departmental vehicles.

The MEC emphasized that the community suffers when healthcare resources are under attack, and he pledged to continue working with the SAPS and stakeholders to safeguard healthcare personnel and ensure uninterrupted healthcare services.