Department condemns theft and vandalism at Bara Hospital
A suspect was arrested after allegedly stealing hospital water taps and vandalising infrastructure at the hospital.
The Gauteng Department of Health has strongly condemned an incident of theft and vandalism at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital on Saturday, July 11, at about 19:20.
According to the department, CCTV operators monitoring the hospital spotted a man on the roof of the main kitchen building. Security personnel were immediately alerted and swiftly apprehended the suspect outside the main kitchen.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect allegedly gained access through the main kitchen plant room behind the dental unit.
ALSO READ: Bara hospital announces new visiting hours from September 1
A burglar gate in the area had reportedly been left unsecured, allowing access to the kitchen balcony.
Following his arrest, the suspect allegedly led security personnel to an area outside Ward 15, where several hospital water taps had been concealed. He is further alleged to have stolen taps from various locations across the hospital precinct, including Ward 40, over the past few weeks.
A criminal case has been opened at Diepkloof Police Station, and the suspect has been handed over to the South African Police Service for further investigation.
ALSO READ: Young cancer patients celebrate slipper day at Bara Hospital
“The department has instituted immediate corrective measures to secure the affected area. In addition, a broader assessment of all rooftop and plant room access points across the hospital is underway to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
“The Department will continue to co-operate fully with police as investigations proceed and will implement all necessary measures to strengthen security and safeguard public assets,” said Gauteng MEC for Health Faith Mazibuko.
The department also appealed to members of the public to respect and protect government property.
“Theft and vandalism of healthcare infrastructure compromise service delivery and ultimately affect patients who depend on public healthcare services. These facilities belong to the people of Gauteng and must be protected by all. Members of the public are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to hospital management or police.”
