Minister Fritz condemns robbery of Retreat CHC

Minister Fritz condemns robbery of Retreat CHC, outlines strategy to improve hospital safety

The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, condemns in the strongest terms the reported robbery of the Retreat Community Health Centre (CHC), and is appalled that criminals are targeting our healthcare system amid the Covid-19 pandemic. It is reported that this is the second armed robbery of the facility within a month.

On Sunday, three armed robbers held security at gunpoint at Retreat CHC and proceeded to rob a guard, fleeing with personal items. It is further reported that a couple waiting on a patient was also mugged.

Minister Fritz said, “It is abhorrent that criminals are targeting the Retreat CHC, while we are battling a Covid-19 pandemic. Our healthcare workers sole focus should be on savings people’s lives. They shouldn’t have to be simultaneously concerned about their own physical safety. I condemn any attacks on our healthcare system. As a Department we are taking every step in our power to ensure and safety of these institutions.”

The Department of Community Safety has put in place safety measures at Retreat CHC which include:

• Deploying its Security Support Team to Retreat CHC to bolster the physical security presence;
• Arranging for an on-site risk assessment;
• Setting up an engagement with SAPS and Law Enforcement to assist regular patrols in the area; and
• Meeting with the security of the facility.

It is further recommended that a new security plan be developed for the facility.

Minister Fritz concluded, “SAPS’ investigation into the matter is still underway and for that reason I call on anyone with information on these robberies to come forward and report such to SAPS by vising your locals SAPS station, by calling Crime Stop on 08600 1011 or using the tip off function on the MySAPS cellphone application.”