KZN health MEC condemns attack on clinic staff by ‘rowdy’ Christmas party group

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Health Dr Sibongiseni Dhlomo has condemned an incident in which two health workers were assaulted and government property was damaged by a group of people accompanying a patient at the KwaDukuza Clinic in Stanger on Wednesday. 

He said it was alleged that the group of rowdy — and possibly drunk — people who had brought in an injured colleague had become involved in an argument with clinic staff members.

It is believed that the group had been attending a Christmas year-end party where alcohol was served.

“As the argument escalated‚ the group began attacking the health worker‚ as well as his colleague. They were joined by more revellers from the party. Clinic security tried to intervene‚ but were outnumbered by the attackers.

“Fortunately‚ other security officers who had been passing by stopped and also got involved in trying to diffuse the situation. They were also joined by SAPS members who arrested some of the alleged attackers‚” Dhlomo’s spokesperson‚ Sam Mkhwanazi‚ said.

Two health workers sustained injuries‚ with one having to receive medical attention‚ he said.

“The clinic’s main gate was damaged and ripped off from the rails by the attackers. Repairs to the gate are currently under way to ensure the safety of staff since the facility is providing a 24-hour service.

Reacting to the incident on Saturday‚ Dhlomo said: “We are alarmed and‚ quite frankly‚ disgusted by this incident. We will not tolerate any form of behaviour that threatens the safety and wellbeing of health professionals and health facility support staff‚ who render such important work.

“In fact‚ the life-saving work that these people do is sacrosanct‚ and should never be interfered with by anybody. We therefore call upon society to help protect our staff at all times.”