Private Security Sector Denies Blame For Breaches At Rural Clinics

The Association of Private Security Owners of South Africa has rejected allegations that security companies are responsible for security breaches at public health facilities . This comes after the Limpopo Health Department launched an investigation into a break-in at the Ga-Chuene Clinic outside Lebowakgomo two weeks ago, during which two nurses were abducted and raped.

The Associations spokesperson Sindiswa Changuion criticised government for potentially scapegoating the private security sector, highlighting systemic issues such as the lowest bidder principle. According to Changuion, this practice often results in inadequate security resources, poorly trained personnel, and companies forced to cut corners due to delayed payments from departments.

The lowest bidder principle sometimes leads to inefficiencies and incompetent security officers or technology. Some security companies are not even paid on time, which affects their operations, Changuion states.

In response, Limpopo Health Department spokesperson Neil Shikwambana emphasised that the investigation is aimed at improving security systems rather than assigning blame. He reaffirmed the departments commitment to ensuring clinics across Limpopo can provide 24-hour services, particularly in rural areas where access to hospitals is limited.

Clinics are closer to our communities. For people in rural areas who may not afford hospital trips, a nearby clinic offering night services is essential, Shikwambana explains.