Two Limpopo Nurses Allegedly Abducted and Raped on Duty

Two Limpopo Nurses Allegedly Abducted and Raped on Duty

In a horrifying incident, two nurses at Chuene Clinic, near Polokwane in Limpopo, were allegedly abducted and raped during the early hours of Friday.

According to police spokesperson Brig Hlulani Mashaba, as reported by TimesLive, the assailant gained access to the clinic at about 12:30 a.m. by entering through the guardroom, where three security guards were stationed. The suspect reportedly tied up two of the guards and forced the female guard to accompany him into the clinic.

Inside, the attacker encountered two nurses, aged 47 and 28, whom he robbed of their cellphones. He then forced the nurses into nearby bushes, leaving the female security guard behind.

“He instructed them to undress, sexually assaulted them, and fled the scene,” Brig Mashaba explained. After the assault, the traumatised nurses managed to walk back to the clinic and were later transported to a hospital for medical care.

Limpopo police commissioner Lt-Gen Thembi Hadebe has condemned the attack and ordered a specialised investigation team to work swiftly to apprehend the suspect.

“This heinous crime is an attack on healthcare workers and cannot be tolerated,” Hadebe stated. She emphasised the importance of ensuring the safety of public servants, especially those working late hours to serve their communities.

The incident has sparked outrage across the province, with many calling for increased security measures at healthcare facilities. Community leaders have expressed solidarity with the victims, demanding justice and better protection for frontline workers.

“Healthcare workers should never have to fear for their lives while saving others,” said community activist Thabiso Mokoena. “This attack shows the urgent need to address security lapses at clinics and hospitals.”

Authorities Seek Information

Police have appealed to the public for assistance in identifying the perpetrator. They encourage anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.

As the victims recover from their ordeal, their colleagues and communities rally to provide emotional and psychological support.

The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by healthcare workers, particularly in remote or underserved areas. It also raises urgent questions about workplace safety and the need for comprehensive measures to protect vulnerable workers from harm.