By Kopano Dibakwane
A 31 year-old female doctor, stationed at Middleburg Hospital in the Steve Tshwete Local Municipality, was arrested and spent a weekend behind bars after she was suspected of stealing medication and equipment estimated to the value of R 50 000.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson, Captain Magonseni Nkosi, said the alleged stolen items were discovered after the doctor’s vehicle was searched by security personnel as she was departing from the hospital.
“ Reports indicate that numerous medications and medical equipment were found concealed in the boot. The doctor could not explain why the government’s properties were in her car. Police were summoned to the scene and the doctor was arrested for stealing from the hospital,” said Nkosi.
Mpumalanga MEC for Health, Sasekani Manzini, has strongly condemned the act of crime by the doctor and said the theft of medication and medical equipment negatively affects the delivery of health service that is meant for communities, and in this regard, strong action will be taken against anyone who steals from the Department.
“ As a Department, we do not condone such behaviour. A disciplinary action will be taken by the Department to correct the wrong behaviour,” said the MEC.
The doctor was scheduled to appear before the Middleburg Magistrate’s Court.
