EMS officials attacked in Phillipi; Eerste River

EMS officials were attacked in Eisleben Road, Phillipi on Tuesday, when they were threatened with a firearm and were pulled out of the vehicle by four perpetrators

The EMS’ Principal Communications Officer, Deanna February says a female official was attacked and hit with the firearm on her back.

‘’The vehicle was then stolen and there has been no trace of it ever since. The incident occurred in Eisleben Road in Philippi and SAPS is currently investigating the incident.’’

Another incident, added February, occurred on Wednesday, in Eerste River.

‘’The ambulance which the crew were travelling in was stoned and badly damaged by unknown individuals. The vehicle was damaged and fortunately, there were no serious physical injuries, however, the EMS officials are severely traumatised following this senseless attack and have been supported with counselling and time off if required,’’ she said.

According to figures from the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, there were 78 attacks in 2021. So far in 2022, there have been 6 attacks on EMS officials.

The department has condemned the incident.

‘’Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness strongly condemns the recent attacks on Emergency Medical Services (EMS) officials and will continue to implement essential measures to ensure that EMS officials are kept safe, particularly when they need to enter Red Zones.’’

‘’There’s been a worrying increase in staff attacks which is unacceptable and impacts service delivery. Although most attacks do not result in serious physical injuries, essential health services are often being disrupted,’’ added February.

The spokesperson urged the public to protect EMS officials and report incidents to SAPS.

‘’The poor response time is most severely felt by the most vulnerable. These attacks leave staff traumatised and fearing for their lives while fulfilling their duties. They go beyond and above the call of duty, by risking their lives daily to save the lives of the vulnerable people in communities. We are therefore urging the public to protect and support EMS officials and immediately report these incidents to their nearest police station.’’

 

PICTURE Courtesy: WCDoH

Done By: Mitchum George