Key Points:
- A JMPD officer shot on duty was denied treatment at Milpark Hospital due to a large debt allegedly owed by the City of Joburg.
- The City of Joburg disputes the claim, stating the outstanding debt is R3.9 million and payments are being processed.
- A formal investigation into the incident has been launched, with the city filing complaints about the hospital’s conduct.
A Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) officer, critically injured while on duty, could not receive emergency medical care at Netcare Milpark Hospital. The City of Joburg allegedly owes a large outstanding debt to the hospital, and this situation led to the officer being denied treatment.
Officer Denied Treatment Due to City’s Alleged Debt
Sarah Wissler, chairperson of the Public Safety Committee, reported that the officer had been shot while pursuing a suspect. Paramedics transported him to Milpark Hospital for emergency care. However, hospital staff turned him away due to the debt the City of Joburg allegedly owes. Afterward, the officer was transferred to Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital. There, he faced further delays before receiving treatment.
“The officer, now in critical condition, had to wait hours before getting care at another hospital,” Wissler said. “This delay in providing care to an officer injured in the line of duty is unacceptable.”
City of Joburg Disputes Debt Amount
The City of Joburg disputed the claim of a R35 million debt. In a statement, the city clarified that the current outstanding balance is R3.9 million. The city also stated that it processes payments to Milpark Hospital weekly.
Furthermore, the city criticized Milpark’s refusal to treat the officer. It called the actions of the hospital staff “unprofessional and unethical,” especially in such a critical situation.
“We will file a formal complaint with the Health Professions Council of South Africa,” the city said. “Such conduct is unacceptable, particularly when emergency personnel are involved.”
Immediate Actions and Investigation
The City of Joburg acted swiftly to address the issue. The acting city manager convened a senior executive team to meet with Milpark management. Additionally, the Group Forensic and Investigation Services (GFIS) will launch an internal investigation. This probe will determine if any negligence by city officials contributed to the incident.
“We cannot allow any more delays or injuries to officers and residents because of the city’s financial issues,” Wissler emphasized. The city also plans to file a formal complaint against the councillor who issued the original statement to the media without verifying the facts.
Meanwhile, the officer remains in critical condition in the intensive care unit. The city expressed its hopes for his full and speedy recovery.
Arrest and Recovery of Firearm
After the shooting, authorities arrested an individual believed to be an associate of the suspect. They also recovered a firearm and ammunition from the scene of the arrest.
