Joburg nurse arrested for selling fake Covid negative tests released on bail

A Parkhurst Clinic healthcare worker who was arrested for allegedly selling and issuing fake Covid-19 negative test certificates has been released on R3,000 bail.

Skhumbuzo Sdumo Manana, 28, appeared at the Booysens Magistrates Court on Monday for his formal bail application.

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Manana – who is a nurse at the Parkhurst Clinic – faces charges related to the Contravention of the Medicines and Related Activities Act, fraud, uttering and possession of suspected stolen goods.

He was arrested last weekend for allegedly selling and issuing fake Covid-19 negative test certificates to travellers for an amount of R500.

The City of Johannesburg’s group forensic and investigation service (GFIS) department received a complaint about Manana’s dealings.

“The team immediately investigated the allegations and arranged a sting operation working with the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department [JMPD] which led to his arrest at his place of residence,” said the spokesperson for the GFIS, Lucky Sindane, in a statement.

Manana will also face an internal disciplinary process for his actions. He is expected to appear again in court on 17 September 2021.

“The city is calling on residents who might have information regarding the sale of fake Covid-19 negative test certificates to please come forward and report through the 24-hour tip-off hotline on 0800-002-587 or visit the offices of GFIS situated at 48 Ameshoff Street, Braamfontein,” Sindane said.

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