Police are searching for the remaining  suspects after two arrested were made in connection with the burglary and vandalism of Kensington Day hospital. The facility was temporarily closed down after being ransacked last weekend and the lack of equipment has left it under strain.

The police’s Noloyiso Rwexana reported that Kensington police were investigating a case of burglary following the incident last Sunday.

“According to information, property belonging to the hospital that were stolen includes computers and medication.”

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said the total theft and damages incurred amounted to R800 000.

Western Cape government health spokesperson Monique Johnstone condemned the targeting of vital services.

“We are deeply distressed by the lack of respect shown towards healthcare, and this criminal activity has brought about unnecessary financial implications and impacted not just the staff, but the patients and the community it serves,” Johnstone said.

Patients are being referred to surrounding facilities.

“Kensington Day Hospital has no power supply and all electronic and medical equipment including non-medical items have been stolen or damaged, and, therefore, services cannot operate optimally.”

The chronic dispensing unit services are however still operational for patients to collect their pre-packed medication at the facility.  Johnstone urged patients to bring their hospital cards or empty medication packets to assist in simplifying the medication collection as patient folders cannot be accessed electronically.

Community policing chairperson Erica Isaacs said the facility was re-opened on Tuesday despite a traumatic experience.

“They are quite busy. Staff were tending to patients as if nothing happened. I applaud (them) for coming back even though they were traumatised.”

Van Wyk added that the two men opposed bail when they appeared in the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court on Monday. He added that the pair, aged 33 and 45, opposed bail as after being charged for business burglary.

Van Wyk said police confiscated computer equipment, a heart machine, boxes of scissors, memory sticks and milk during their arrests. A Renault Transporter believed to have been used during the crimes was also seized.

Four other suspects have been identified and police are collecting evidence for their arrests to be made.

Medical emergencies will be diverted to Vanguard Community Health Centre until further notice.

Johnstone expressed appreciation for the patience being shown and committed to providing updates.

Anyone with information can contact CrimeStop 08600 10111

VOC