Security guards who were on duty at Middelburg Provincial Hospital were reportedly attacked by an alleged group of other security guards from another company. The incident is said to have occurred on Thursday, 21 July 2022 between 14:00 and 15:00.
No serious injuries were sustained however one guard was treated for injuries and then later discharged from the hospital. It is further alleged that rubber bullets were used.
The matter was reported to the police in Middelburg and so far five suspects aged between 26 and 40 have been arrested. The charges range from discharging a firearm in a public space and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Police are also looking at probing the allegations of a live round fired during the incident. The motive is yet to be established however the five suspects are expected to appear at the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court soon facing the said charges.
The displayed behavior was strongly condemned by the Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela who reminded members of the security cluster of their core duty which is to maintain peace. “The behavior displayed at the hospital can never be tolerated or accepted especially coming from the security officers or any officer of the law. Instead, members of the security cluster should be exemplary in conduct. We hope that the law will take its course” said the General.