The Police have launched a massive manhunt for a group of five armed suspects who allegedly shot and injured three doctors and stabbed a fourth with a sharp object during an incident at Letaba Hospital doctor’s residence early this morning (Thursday).
Provincial Police spokesperson Moatshe Ngoepe said initial information indicated that a couple, both doctors, was asleep when the suspects broke into their house and attacked them. The male doctor was shot in the process and the perpetrators managed to get away with a television set and cell phones.
The suspects then apparently proceeded to another house where they attacked another couple, shooting a male doctor and assaulting his wife with a sharp object, Ngoepe explained and added that the couple was also robbed of a television set, cell phones, a tablet, laptops and an amount of cash. The injured were taken to hospital it was reported. It was further learnt that a two-month-old baby whose mother was shot is unharmed.
Ngoepe emphasised that a Police task team was established to hunt down the suspects and bring them to book as speedily as possible. Cases of attempted murder and house robbery have been opened for investigation, he stated.
Health MEC Phophi Ramathuba visited the hospital this morning (Thursday).
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in Limpopo has issued a statement calling on Ramathuba to increase security at health facilities, especially in rural clinics and hospitals and to collaborate with the Police to ensure their regular presence at health institutions at night and visible policing in communities.
Police plead with anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the suspects to call Cecil Machimani on 082 451 7181 or the crime stop number 086 001 0111, or the Crime Line SMS 32211 or visit the nearest Police Station.
Story: ENDY SENYATSI
>>endy@observer.co.za
