Security guards at the gate entrance of Gugulethu Community Health Centre in Cape Town were robbed of their personal belongings in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Two people gained access to the premises by impersonating patients seeking healthcare. One suspect posed as a patient in a wheelchair, while another posed as the caregiver pushing the wheelchair.
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Shortly after the security guards opened the gate, the two suspects pulled out guns and held them up.
Two more suspects then entered the premises, and the four criminals proceeded to rob the security guards of their personal belongings.
‘The suspects fled the scene and are yet to be arrested,’ said Warrant Officer Joseph Swartbooi, who confirmed that no injuries were sustained.
‘The motive for the attack is robbery.’
In response to video footage of the incident circulating on social media, the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness released a statement condemning any form of crime, especially when criminals prey on the sick and frail.
Morally Bankrupt!
I just received this video of armed robbers posing with a fake ‘patient’ in a wheelchair asking for help at the Gugs KTC day hospital in Cape Town. Watch to see what happens next… pic.twitter.com/zbkaOch9FZ— Ian Cameron (@IanCameron23) June 13, 2023
‘The trauma of such actions leave on the victims is long-lasting. Everyone at the facility has been offered counselling and will continue to be supported in their emotional recovery,’ read the statement.
Western Cape minister of health and wellness, Dr Nomafrench Mbombo, added in the statement: ‘Our health facilities are essential assets to our communities where residents can seek proper healthcare in a safe environment’.
‘These actions not only undermine our facilities’ ability to function, but also place our staff and patients’ lives in danger. I hope that the SAPS prioritises this case and ensures that the perpetrators face the full consequences of the law,’ added Mbombo.
Gugulethu police are investigating a case of armed robbery.
Anyone with information on the incident is urged to contact Crime Stop on 08600 10111, SMS Crime Line on 32211 or us the My SAPS app.
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Picture: screenshot from video