A critically ill Moorton mother and her son were subject to alleged assault, aggression and harassment at the RK Khan Hospital recently.
It is presumed that after another patient and her husband allegedly abused the mother and son, they faced further trauma due to the hospital security’s inadequate response.
Communications officer of SAPS Chatsworth, Captain Cheryl Pillay, confirmed that a case of common assault is being investigated by police.
The mother, who did not want to be named, said: “I have multiple medical conditions, including a pinched nerve, slipped disc, scoliosis, degenerative disc disease, lupus, diabetes, and cardiac issues. I was accompanied by my 21-year-old son to the hospital. After being double-booked, we were directed to wait at the priority row. Another patient and her husband began making remarks, leading to a commotion. When security intervened, they spoke in Zulu to the aggressors, further escalating the situation.”
It is alleged that as the mum and son walked away, the aggressors confronted them, accusing them of swearing.
“The husband became violent, pushing and punching me, and assaulting my son. The security guards eventually intervened but were rude and unhelpful, allowing the aggressors to leave without taking statements from us. We reported the incident to the police and sought medical attention for our physical and emotional trauma. My medical conditions worsened due to the incident. A charge was opened at SAPS Chatsworth against the aggressor. Investigations are ongoing, and a court appearance date is awaited.
This distressing incident highlights the need for improved security measures and training at RK Khan Hospital. Patients should feel safe and supported, especially when facing medical challenges. The hospital’s response was unacceptable,” she said.
Another person posted on social media following the incident: “This is just one of hundreds of cases that occurred at RK Khan’s hospital that no one cares about. Our so-called politicians and community leaders are only out looking for votes. I have been in and out of this hospital with a number of incidents that are ongoing.
Daily, security treats Indian patients badly, they are constantly behind them kicking them out of the hospital, then request cash from them to get back into the hospital. I have confronted several of the security officers in charge and have had fiscal encounters with them but the hospital is totally run by security.
I have seen people die in the waiting areas. There was a gentleman who recently died suffering from breathing issues because security refused him access into the hospital, this is an ongoing problem.”
The public relations officer of RK Khan Hospital was contacted for a comment, however the comment was not received at the time of going to print.
