Health centre vehicles hijacked in Mtuba

Two vehicles belonging to the Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) have been hijacked in two separate incidents at different locations in Mtubatuba, raising public alarm and concern.

The first vehicle was hijacked on 15 February in the KwaMsane area, while the second was hijacked on the 26th at Ndlovu Village (kwa-D).

According to a source, the vehicle hijacked in the latter incident was not branded and one of its occupants was a researcher from abroad.

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AHRI’s chief advancement officer Munyadziwa Rabambi confirmed the two hijackings, which they said are now being investigated by the police.

Despite several attempts to obtain comment from the police, Captain Justice Hlabisa had not responded at the time of going to print.

Rabambi said none of AHRI’s employees were physically harmed during the incidents.

“AHRI is fully aware of the trauma associated with such incidents and is providing all necessary support to our staff.

“The work that AHRI does is critical to the health and well-being of our communities and we are working closely with key local stakeholders to ensure such incidents do not disrupt it,” said Rabambi.

Responding to a question about whether or not the institute suspects its vehicles may now be a target for hijackers, Rabambi said it would be ‘irresponsible’ to speculate, especially while police investigations are ongoing.

“We are obviously very distressed by these incidents as the safety of AHRI employees and our research participants is our priority.

“We are working closely with SAPS, and hope the police investigation is concluded soon.

“We urge anyone with information that could help the investigation to contact the police,” said Rabambi.

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