Cape Town – It is not clear when the Weltevreden Valley Clinic in Samora Machel will be reopened following an armed robbery by unknown suspects eight days ago.
Area councillor Sithembiso Mzobe said he was heartbroken about crime in the area and people needed the clinic.
The clinic was closed indefinitely last week, while City services to the area have also been suspended following a violent attack on council staff on Tuesday, which left a supervisor hospitalised with a bullet wound.
“We have been trying to fight crime for the past few months, and it’s sad that it has resulted in the closure of the clinic,” Mzobe said.
“These criminals have no morals because they rob the very same people that are there to assist the community; now the City has withdrawn its services from Samora because of a similar incident.
’’Crime is becoming our everyday lives and it’s getting out of hand. Residents are suffering because of criminals who are making living conditions unbearable here.”
Police spokesperson FC van Wyk said an armed robbery at the clinic was being investigated.
“It is alleged that a driver who transports nurses to and from the clinic was waiting for the clinic staff in the clinic parking area when two unknown suspects approached him and pointed a firearm at him.
’’He tried to move a bit but a nurse who was already inside the vehicle came out of the vehicle and was robbed of her cellphone by these two suspects. A case of armed robbery is being investigated.”
Mayco member for community services and health Zahid Badroodien said the staff were left traumatised and employee assistance and debriefing sessions were provided.
“Staff fear for their safety and meetings were held with all role-players including the health committee, the SAPS, law enforcement, ward councillor, union, and staff.”
Anyone with any information about the incident can anonymously contact Crime Stop on 0860010111 or SMS Crime Line on 32211.
Cape Times