THE Wentworth Hospital Board has strongly criticised the handling of an incident in which a 54-year-old suspect escaped while under police guard at the facility on April 3.

The suspect, who had been admitted for medical treatment, fled from the hospital despite being in custody, raising serious concerns about security and internal protocols.

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Board member, Sidney Govindsamy, said the board only became aware of the incident after receiving a media enquiry.

“The board expresses its deep disappointment and serious concern regarding both the incident itself and the manner in which it was handled thereafter,” he said.
“Of particular concern is that neither hospital management nor the board was formally informed of the escape, nor of subsequent media enquiries regarding this high-risk incident.”

Govindsamy described the lapse as a “significant breakdown in internal communication, governance protocols and professional responsibility”.

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He also took aim at the hospital’s public relations office, saying it failed in its duty to escalate a matter of such seriousness to executive management and the board.

“A matter involving the escape of a detained suspect from hospital premises is not a routine enquiry, it is a high-risk incident with major implications for public safety, hospital security and institutional credibility. The failure to notify senior leadership or to provide timely and appropriate responses to the media falls well below acceptable professional, ethical and communication standards expected within a public healthcare institution,” he said.

He warned that the lack of communication could damage the hospital’s reputation and erode public trust.

“Media silence in matters of public concern often creates the perception that the institution is hiding information, lacks control, or is unwilling to be accountable,” he said.

Govindsamy added that repeated failures to address complaints promptly suggest the issue may not be isolated, raising concerns about ongoing performance within the communications function.

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“The board is justified in questioning the individual’s effectiveness, work ethic and suitability for the role,” he said.

He said decisive action would be taken to ensure accountability and restore confidence. The board has committed to a full internal investigation and says further updates will be provided.

When the SUN contacted the hospital CEO, Nozipho Mdima, referred all queries to the KZN Department of Health.

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