A disgruntled member of the public was arrested for assaulting a health worker and the manager of the Thabong Clinic.
The incident on 16 January happened during a routine biometrics and file-issuing process, where a misunderstanding led to the patient becoming aggressive. The patient physically assaulted an official responsible for issuing files and later assaulted the clinic manager who attempted to intervene and resolve the matter.
A case was opened at the Thabong Police Station, and the suspect was arrested and charged with assault. The accused was later released on warning, and the first court appearance is scheduled for 26 January.
The Free State Department of Health strongly condemns this incident of violence.
“The department will conduct a thorough investigation into the matter and explore measures to prevent similar incidents in the future,” said MEC Monyatso Mahlatsi.
“The department condemns all acts of violence against healthcare workers. Such behavior will not be tolerated, and we call on all community members to respect healthcare staff who are committed to serving the public.”
