Motherwell Clinic Staff Too Traumatised To Work After Burglars Steal Equipment

Healthcare services at the Motherwell Community Health Centre have been temporarily disrupted after burglars broke into the facility and stole computer equipment.

The incident occurred during the early hours of Friday, leaving parts of the clinic unable to operate normally and causing distress among some employees.

According to police, the break-in was only discovered later that morning when staff arrived and opened the premises.

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Police spokesperson Captain André Beetge confirmed that authorities had launched an investigation.

“It is alleged that the break-in at the Motherwell Health Centre was discovered when the premises were unlocked on the morning of the incident,” Beetge told SurgeZirc SA.

He added that an unknown amount of computer equipment had been stolen from the clinic.

“The case is being investigated by Motherwell police.”

Patients Diverted to Dora Nginza Hospital Amid Safety Concerns

Following the burglary, the Eastern Cape health department said several staff members were too shaken to continue working, leading to interruptions in certain medical services.

Health department spokesperson Camagwini Mavovana explained that some workers requested psychological support before returning to night shifts, while others called in sick for daytime duty.

“Some staff members indicated that they required counselling support before returning to night duty, while others reported sick for the day shift,” she said.

“This has unfortunately resulted in temporary service disruptions in certain units, including the Trauma and Midwife Obstetric Unit.”

To ensure patients still receive care, emergency medical services have been instructed to redirect cases to Dora Nginza Hospital.

“To ensure patient safety and continuity of care, emergency medical services have been directed to divert patients to Dora Nginza Hospital, where doctors are currently assisting with clinical duties.”

Repairs and Security Upgrades Underway at Motherwell Facility

Officials say repair work began immediately after the break-in as the department works to restore the facility’s operations and improve security.

“Infrastructure damage is already being attended to,” Mavovana said.

The repair programme includes strengthening access points and replacing damaged fittings.

“Repairs include securing entrances and gates, installing new security locks, reinforcing access control measures, and repairing damaged doors and gates.”

Authorities are also engaging community representatives to address safety issues around the clinic.

Mavovana said the department is collaborating with the Motherwell Clinic Committee, the local ward councillor and community stakeholders to tackle security concerns.

Meanwhile, the health department is working to ensure staff feel supported as they prepare to return to duty.

“The department will continue engaging staff to support their return to duty and is exploring contingency measures, including the use of agency nurses where necessary, to ensure services resume as quickly as possible.”

“We thank the community of Motherwell for their patience and understanding while the department works to restore full operations at the facility.”