BREAKING NEWS: Patient assaulted at private hospital

A 63-year-old woman was assaulted by four visitors at MediClinic Newcastle on Sunday.

The victim, Sizakele Dlamini from Dundee, said she left the ward to get some fresh air at about 4pm.

While she was sitting near the reception door, four people arrived and allegedly parked their bakkie in a parking spot reserved for ambulances.

“A man and three women came out of the vehicle and stood next to where I was sitting,” Ms Dlamini explained to media.

The man had allegedly lit a cigarette and approached her, forcing her to smell the smoke.

She asked the man what he was doing, worried the smoke might trigger an asthma attack.

“His wife spoke in Afrikaans and said: Ag man moenie so races nie.”(sic)

Ms Dlamini said the man threatened to hit her. Allegedly unprovoked, he proceeded to punch her with a closed fist.

“She (wife) grabbed me by my clothes and shoved me down to the ground.”

Both husband and wife punched her as she lay defenceless on the floor.

Patients came to the rescue in an effort to ward off her attackers.

Doctor Relationship Manager at Mediclinic Newcastle, Mariette Classen, confirmed the incident did occur on the hospital grounds. She said it was unfortunate the incident occurred on their premises.

“A case of assault has been opened and police are investigating the matter,” she said. “We have 24-hour security on the premises and all the reasonable measures have always been in place to ensure the safety of our patients at all times.

Mrs Dlamini was taken back to her ward by security. Shortly thereafter, police arrived to take her statement.

“I was supposed to be discharged on Monday, 29 June, but my doctor said I have to go for a brain scan and an x-ray as I am feeling pains on my back and head.”

Ms Dlamini’s spectacles were allegedly trampled by the culprit’s daughter.

“My doctor said I have to also wait for the trauma councillor, as I was traumatised when this happened.”

SAPS spokesperson, Captain Shooz Magudulela confirmed a case of assault has been opened. The matter is currently subject to police investigation.

We will keep you updated as the story unfolds.

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