GQEBERHA – Four employees of Livingstone Hospital and a community member have been arrested following alleged theft incidents at the Gqeberha hospital, with medicine among the items allegedly stolen.
The arrests followed a two-week security operation at the hospital, according to the Eastern Cape Department of Health.
TYEKS Security Services officers apprehended the five suspects and handed them over to the South African Police Service (SAPS), which subsequently made the arrests.
The department said the suspects were linked to alleged theft from several parts of the hospital, including the kitchen and laundry departments.
“Other items reportedly involved include air-conditioning equipment and medicines,” the department said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
SAPS will lead the criminal investigation into the allegations.
The department has not identified the four employees’ positions at the hospital.
Department warns against hospital theft
The arrests have been welcomed by the Department of Health, which praised both TYEKS Security Services and SAPS for their response.
“The arrests demonstrate the importance of strong security partnerships, vigilance and a proactive approach in protecting public healthcare facilities and the resources entrusted to them for the benefit of patients and communities,” the department said.
The department said theft from a hospital affects more than the institution itself because the resources are intended to serve patients and communities.
“Stealing from a hospital is not merely stealing from an institution, it is stealing from patients, families and communities who rely on these services,” it said.
The department also issued a warning to employees and others who may be involved in criminal activity within the public health system.
“The Department wishes to send a clear message that there is no place for criminality, corruption or misconduct within the public health system,” it said.
Disciplinary action may follow
Any employee found to have taken part in unlawful activities will face consequence management, including possible disciplinary action, in line with labour relations procedures.
The department said internal labour relations processes had already begun.
“Labour Relations processes have been initiated to ensure that all internal procedures are followed and that accountability measures are implemented where necessary,” it said.
The Department of Health said it would continue working with security companies, law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders to strengthen security at healthcare facilities.
Members of the public and employees are also encouraged to report suspicious activities that threaten public resources or compromise healthcare services.
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