The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) calls for heightened policing in and around Coronationville in Johannesburg as the persistent crime incidents continue to affect Rahima Moosa Mother and Child Hospital (RHMCH).
Since December 2023 to date, two incidents have occurred at the facility. One incident occurred during the festive period on 25 December where a nurse got hijacked at gunpoint outside just after leaving the hospital and another happened a week ago on 27 January 2024 where two people sustained gunshot injuries after their vehicle was hijacked at the gate minutes after they entered the hospital premises. The two have since been discharged. The hijacked vehicle was recovered a few hours later.
Cases for these incidents have been opened with the police.
The persistent crime in the area affects patients who have to access healthcare services at the hospital. There has been a number of patients complaining on their arrival to the facility that they have been mugged on their way to the hospital, with their phones taken or handbags snatched.
The RHMCH has engaged the Sophiatown Police Station, requesting for increased patrolling around the hospital and a police mobile unit to be stationed outside the healthcare facility. This will ensure greater collaboration to secure the safety of patients and staff, as well as benefit the community in the vicinity of the hospital. The CPF is now actively patrolling the area.
In addition, the Department is exploring other avenues to improve security measures in and around the facility.
For more information please contact:
Motalatale Modiba
Head of Communication
Cell: 064 803 0808
E-mail: healthmediaenquiries@gauteng.gov.za
Tshepo Shawa
Spokesperson for the MEC for Health
Cell: 072 222 6333
E-mail: Tshepo.Shawa@gauteng.gov.za
