Security improved at New Brighton clinic after thieves target facility

Security will be stepped up at the New Brighton clinic following a fifth break-in at the facility in a month, the Eastern Cape Department of Health said last night – but the DA claimed that neither the panic buttons issued to nurses nor the alarm was working.

On all five occasions, thieves tried to steal copper pipes from the roof.

The facility was flooded each time and has now been closed for repairs.

Provincial health spokesman Siyanda Manana said a meeting was held on Wednesday, at which staff members raised their concerns over security.

“They were informed that additional security guards had been deployed to beef up security at the facility, fencing will be strengthened, and lighting at night has been improved, while repairs to the building are under way,” he said.

He said the fence around the facility had also been electrified.

“Community members requested a mobile clinic while the repairs are being done as they are tired of travelling to other clinics,” Manana said.

This had commenced operation.

Manana said the district management team extended their gratitude to the clinic staff members who diligently offered their services to the community during this difficult time.