6 paramedics robbed at gunpoint
Six male City of Johannesburg paramedics were robbed at gunpoint on 10 July in Jeppestown while attending to a patient who had been stabbed in the chest.
Spokesperson for Johannesburg Emergency Services (EMS), Robert Mulaudzi said the paramedics were ambushed by gunmen while they were attending to the patient. “The suspects took their cellphones, wallets, a two-way radio and the medical drug bag,” he said.
Warrant Officer Richard Munyai, spokesperson for the Jeppestown Police Station, confirmed the incident, explaining that the suspects not only made off with the victims’ valuables, but also damaged the response cars.
“We can confirm that two suspects forcefully opened the ambulance door and pointed the victims with a firearm and a knife; they then searched the victims and took their cell phones, watch, bank cards and wallets with cash,” he said.
“While they were busy robbing them, a third suspect was seen breaking into another car, a response Nissan belonging to the EMS, which that was parked next to the ambulance.”
All three suspects ran off on foot and managed to disappear and that no shots were fired during the robbery. Munyai also confirmed that a case of armed robbery and malicious damage to property was opened at the Jeppe police station.
Mulaudzi, meanwhile, urged community members to assist in fighting the growing trend of attacking paramedics while they were on duty. He said those who have information about the robbery should contact the police urgently.
He added that they were trying to increase the security of paramedics when attending to calls. “Sometimes we do have a police or Metro police vehicle escorting the paramedics but this is not possible at all times.”
Mulaudzi said they were also working closely with community leaders in an effort to establish a closer working relationship that they believe might help to decrease attacks on paramedics. He added that EMS did not want to find themselves in a position where certain areas were no-go areas for their paramedics.
“We cannot write off areas because of the criminal elements, that is why we are encouraging community members to take charge and lead in this fight to stop attacks on paramedics.”
The public are urged to contact investigating officer, Detective Constable Kwena Mashala, if they have any information relating to the incident. The case continues.
Details: 078 214 7421; 011 624 6000.
