Staff at the Paulina Morapeli Clinic in Ext 19, eMbalenhle, received counselling today (August 5) after being attacked by an armed gang during the night of August 1.

The group of men pretended to seek help at the clinic for a terminally ill friend. A security guard provided them with a wheelchair, which they used to push the so-called patient into the clinic building.

Once inside, the group pulled out firearms and pointed them at the nurses. Fortunately, the nurses were able to escape and run to safety.

The robbers fled with only the wheelchair and the security guard’s uniform, which they forcibly removed.

No injuries were reported.

eMbalenhle police spokesperson, Constable Busi Mthethwa, confirmed the incident and said that two people have since been arrested. The investigation is ongoing.

The MEC for the Mpumalanga Department of Health, Sesekane Manzini, visited the clinic yesterday to offer support to the affected staff.

She declared the night duties at the clinic have been suspended. The facility will now operate from 07:00 to 19:00 daily.

The Mpumalanga Department of Health sincerely apologises to the public for any inconvenience caused by this temporary measure and thanks the community for its understanding and support.