The Hawks in the Eastern Cape have arrested four suspects for allegedly stealing and selling state medicine worth about R200 000. The medications were all stolen from various depots of the Health Department within the province. The Hawks began an investigation in August last year, after receiving information that medication meant to be distributed in state hospitals and clinics were being sold by officials who enriched themselves.
Today (Monday) the Hawks pounced on four suspects (three women and a man). More medication was found in the houses of the suspects. Two of the suspects worked at a distribution depot in Umtata, and the other one worked at a district depot. The fourth suspect allegedly used a vehicle belonging to the King Sabatha Dalindyebo municipality to transport the stolen medication.
The stolen medication was allegedly sold to private doctors and pharmacies. The medication was so much that it filled a small storeroom at our offices in the Eastern Cape. These exhibits were bought over months starting from August last year during controlled purchases by our agents. The Hawks worked with the provincial Health Department during the investigation.
The four are expected in Umtata magistrate court on Wednesday; to face charges of theft and corruption. Our investigation is in the advanced stage, and we hope to arrest those at the receiving end (the alleged buyers).
Enquiries:
Colonel McIntosh Polela
Cell: 082 475 1427
Sizwe Kupelo
Cell: 083 378 0196
Source: South African Police Service
