Over the weekend, the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health has severed ties with six security companies who were providing security services in clinics and hospitals. This follows investigations by the department into some of these companies uncovering transgressions on Private Security Regulations Authority prescripts, claiming for work not done, providing under qualified personnel, using unlicensed firearm, defrauding the department and other prejudices against the Department of Health.
Mvimbeni, Madlula, Titan, Labalela, Mahona and Gcinemfa Security companies were given letters requesting them to vacate the sites they work in within 24 hours. This was because all the said companies had month to month contracts with the department and because of investigation currently underway into their operations the department felt it proper that they are asked to leave the sites. It was also to ensure that the department does not suffer in anyway if they are allowed to serve the months notice. “We have advised them that we would pay them for the months notice,” said the Security Manager of the Department Mr Madoda Mpinda. "We are serious about improving the safety and security of our patients, staff and property of government."
The MEC for Health Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo had indicated when a decomposing body was found at Prince Mshiyeni Memorial Hospital that the department was concerned with the safety and security in many public clinics and hospitals. He said the safety of patients and government property was at risk. In the previous months a number of security problems have occurred in a number of hospitals and clinics. For an example, at Ngwelezane Hospital seven computers were stolen, a patient disappeared and later found dead in the hospital grounds. At Prince Mshiyeni Hospital a decomposing body was found in the toilets of the lecture theatre to mention just two incidents.
Other security companies have been appointed to replace the security companies in all the sites. The department will continue to investigate the operation of private security companies working for the department. This it does to improve the safety and security of patients, staff and government property.
Enquiries:
Chris Maxon
Cell: 083 447 2869
