It was a calm Tuesday night at Dora Nginza Hospital in Gqeberha when everything changed in an instant.
Two women managed to snatch two premature babies from the hospital’s maternity ward, disappearing without a trace and sending shockwaves through the community.
How the Abduction Happened Behind Hospital Walls
The incident unfolded when a security guard noticed the women entering the maternity ward carrying a bag.
Thinking they were breastfeeding mothers, hospital staff didn’t suspect anything unusual.
But things took a terrifying turn when one woman slipped past the guard and walked straight into the nursery with that bag.
CCTV footage later confirmed that she exited through a different door, raising immediate alarm bells.
Hospital management quickly reviewed the footage and alerted the police, who have now opened a criminal investigation.
Health Officials Respond with Condemnation and Urgent Calls for Help
Eastern Cape Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa did not hold back in condemning the brazen act.
She described hospitals as essential service providers that should never be targets for criminals.
In response, she has ordered a thorough internal investigation while urging the people of Gqeberha to help locate the missing babies.
“This kind of violation against our health facilities is unacceptable.
We must come together as a community to protect our most vulnerable,” Capa emphasized.
Rising Attacks on Hospitals Prompt Security Overhaul
Sadly, this isn’t an isolated event. The Eastern Cape Health Department reports an increase in attacks on hospitals throughout Gqeberha.
To counter this worrying trend, millions are being invested annually in private security measures.
Recently, the department has introduced advanced security technologies across multiple facilities in an effort to tighten protection.
What This Incident Means for Public Health Security and Community Safety
This shocking kidnapping raises serious questions about the state of security in public hospitals.
How vulnerable are our health facilities, and what can be done to stop criminals from taking advantage of these vital spaces?
Authorities and communities alike face a critical challenge: to work hand in hand to strengthen safety protocols and ensure that hospitals remain safe havens for patients and staff.