Mpumalanga police spokesperson Donal Mdhluli has confirmed that the confrontation at Ermelo Mediclinic has led to formal criminal charges.

Highvelder reports that this follows an earlier incident in which a 12-year-old learner suffered a seizure during an exam and was rushed to the hospital by her uncle, accompanied by two teachers.

The uncle reportedly informed the traffic officers that it was a medical emergency. One of the teachers, following in a separate vehicle, also stopped to explain the situation. Despite this, the traffic officers pursued the uncle to the hospital.

Once at the emergency ward, a confrontation ensued between the officers and the uncle, during which pepper spray was reportedly deployed, and the child’s uncle was taken into custody.

According to Mdhluli, officers were called to the hospital after a suspect allegedly assaulted traffic officials and resisted arrest.

A case of common assault and resisting arrest was opened by the traffic officers. The suspect, the child’s uncle, was arrested, charged, and later released on bail. He is expected to appear in court on December 8.

Mdhluli said police cannot comment on the specific circumstances surrounding the allegations at this stage. “Deliberating on the matter might appear as if it undermines the justice system whereby both sides will be given an opportunity to tell their side of the story. Let us allow justice to take its course.”

The Highvelder is continuing to reach out to all relevant stakeholders, including the school, the hospital, provincial authorities and family members, and will publish further updates as responses are received.

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