Security Concerns Heighten as Joe Slovo Clinic Becomes Latest Target in Spate of Armed Robberies

In yet another stark reminder of the escalating security issues facing healthcare facilities in the Eastern Cape, the Joe Slovo Clinic situated in Nelson Mandela Bay was the scene of a daunting armed robbery. This incident has sent shockwaves through the community as it becomes the fourth clinic to suffer such an attack in the span of just three months, highlighting a concerning trend.

The ordeal unfolded at roughly 14:00 in the clinic located at Kwadwesi, where five armed individuals overpowered the security guards, forcibly seized their cell phones, and fired a gunshot inside the facility. The group then looted cell phones from the nursing staff. Thankfully, according to police spokesperson Captain Andre Beetge, no injuries were reported despite the violent nature of the crime.

The Eastern Cape Health Department has condemned this act of violence and is taking steps to support the traumatized staff. Spokesperson Mkhululi Ndamase emphasized the department's commitment to improving security at the clinic and other health facilities in the area. Upcoming measures include the strengthening of the perimeter fencing and an increase in the number of CCTV cameras, all within the constraints of the available budget.

Beyond the physical measures of improved gates, an armed response system, and technical innovations, the department is encouraging a collaborative approach with the community to safeguard the facilities. This includes assistance from the public in identifying and reporting criminal activities to the law enforcement agencies.

The Democratic Alliance’s (DA) shadow MEC for Health, Jane Cowley, has called for a more profound response to the issue, pushing for a strategic plan involving not just the Health Department, but also the Department of Community Safety, SAPS, and private sector security companies. Her proposed dual strategy consists of enhanced security for institutions like clinics and schools around the clock, combined with concentrated crime sweeps in the surrounding areas.

SAPS Kwadwesi has initiated investigations following the registration of a business robbery case. The hope is that with a comprehensive approach to security and community-sourced intelligence, the trend of targeting clinics can be met with formidable resistance.