The Charlotte Maxeke Hospital in Johannesburg condemns the recent attack on its healthcare workers.
According to Tabudi Madisha, spokesperson for the hospital, one of the staff members of the national health laboratory service was assaulted with a hammer in an elevator in the hospital on Wednesday around 12:50.
“The staff member (57) was hit over the head with the hammer and her mobile phone was stolen,” confirms Madisha. “She fought back and managed to escape from the assailant’s clutches. She suffered serious injuries to her head.”
One of the hospital officials heard the woman screaming and rushed to her aid.
“The attacker got away.”
The staff member was taken to the casualty unit for medical care. She was stabilized and was later transferred to another health facility for treatment.
“The hospital’s security was able to identify the suspect by means of the CCTV camera footage. The footage has been handed over to the police.”
Col. Police spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi says the suspect was a man who pretended to walk with a crutch.
“The victim was robbed of a mobile phone and sunglasses,” confirms Nevhuhulwi.
Hillbrow police were at the site yesterday to collect evidence. They also interviewed the victim to help her file a case.
“The hospital’s management would like to assure employees, patients and the general public that their safety will always be a priority. That’s why we have security on site around the clock. There are also cameras in high-risk areas. Our security personnel will always be available to accompany anyone when they feel unsafe to move to any part of the hospital or even outside the hospital.”
Anyone with more information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest can contact the hospital’s security on 011 488 3071 or email (email protected) send.
