By More Matshediso
Pretoria - The Chairperson of Gauteng Provincial Legislature’s Portfolio Committee on Health, Nompi Nhlapo, has condemned a recent crime incident that involved rape and assault within the premises of Helen Joseph hospital.
It was reported that a phlebotomist nurse, who works for the National Health Laboratory Services at the hospital, was raped, stabbed and beaten up on Friday night, in a Wits University controlled area at the hospital.
Nhlapo said the incident has created a worrisome concern with regard to the safety of staff members at the hospital.
“This is a signal that calls for re-evaluation of safety and security services in this hospital,” Nhlapo said.
Nhlapo sympathises with the affected phlebotomist, her colleagues and her family. She said the portfolio committee will visit the victim’s family to provide all the necessary support and to assist her overcome the trauma.
“The committee will ensure that the Gauteng Department of Health provides a detailed report on its effort to enhance security services in Helen Joseph hospital,” said Nhlpo.
Nhlapo said the portfolio committee will pay un-announced visits to the hospital soon to check if security issues were addressed.
“The committee will ensure that an investigation by the department is conducted, and its outcome that entails the findings is presented to the committee as soon as possible,” said Nhlapo. - SAnews.gov.za
