By Everson Luhanga
- Tshwane officials found stolen antiretroviral drugs and prescription medicines sold illegally during a raid in Danville.
- The suspects said a Steve Biko Hospital worker helped supply them, and an investigation has been launched to confirm this.
Three people were arrested in Danville, Tshwane, after being caught running an illegal operation involving unsafe abortions and stolen medication.
The suspects were found with antiretroviral (ARV) drugs, antibiotics and other prescription medicines believed to have been stolen from health facilities. The medicines were being sold on the streets without proper authorisation.
Officials also discovered the group had been performing abortions, some as far along as six months, putting the lives of desperate women at serious risk.
Tshwane Member of the Mayoral Committee for Health, Blessing Tshego Oratilwe, said the arrests were part of a joint operation aimed at cracking down on illegal medical practices in the city.
“These operations are disturbing. We are talking about stolen, life-saving medication and unsafe, illegal abortions being done in our communities,” said Oratilwe.
The suspects told police they had a connection inside Steve Biko Academic Hospital who supplied them with the medicines.
Oratilwe confirmed that the city has opened an investigation to find out if someone at the hospital or municipality is working with the suspects.
“If any city or hospital employees are found to be involved, we will take firm action,” she said. “This is criminal behaviour, and the law must take its course.”
She said the arrests show how committed the city is to protecting the health and safety of its residents. “Crime knows no nationality,” said Oratilwe, “and we will act against anyone breaking the law.”
Pictured above: The suspects arrested.
Image source: Supplied
