Town Two Clinic in Khayelitsha has been temporarily closed after armed men stormed the facility on Saturday night, 31 January, and threatened security officers in an alleged extortion attempt.

Ward 93 councillor Thando Pimpi said the men entered the clinic and ordered security officers on duty to contact their employer and demand money on behalf of the extortionists.

“The company’s boss refused to give the money. Then the uproar ensued and extortionists threatened to kill the security officers,” Pimpi said.

The clinic has remained closed since the incident.

On Wednesday, 4 February, a meeting was held between community stakeholders and City officials to address the situation.

“We are still looking for other avenues,” Pimpi said.

The City confirmed in a statement that Town Two Clinic had been closed as a precaution while it addressed an issue involving an external service provider.

“All clients have been referred to their nearest facility for services in the interim. City Health will advise the community once the clinic is set to reopen,” the statement read.

A mobile clinic has been set up at the Metro Police Department offices in Mandela Park, Khayelitsha. Signage has been placed at Town Two Clinic to inform patients of the closure.

Khayelitsha Health Forum chair Mzanywa Ndibongo condemned the incident and called on the community to protect local facilities.

“The City needs to take measures and reinforce its security at the clinics. It is sad that sick people, including old people, must walk long distances to other clinics to collect their medication. We cannot allow the hooligans to dictate to us,” Ndibongo said.

The nearest clinics to Town Two are Matthew Goniwe, Luvuyo and Mayenzeke.