Gauteng Health dept opens criminal cases against striking workers

The Gauteng Health Department has opened criminal cases against protesting health workers who went on the rampage at the Charlotte Maxexe Hospital in Johannesburg on Thursday.

Protestors stormed the hospital disrupting operations.

Workers have been demanding their unpaid performance bonuses which have been outstanding for the past two years.

On Friday, medical operations continued amidst a heavy police presence.

Health workers voiced their frustrations in the hospital hallways on trashing theatres, casualty and medical supplies.

Half of the scheduled operations were halted and patients were unable to access medication.

On Friday services continued uninterrupted but patients are still fearful.

The Health Department has opened several criminal cases asking police to identify those responsible for the violence

Health MEC Dr Gwen Ramagopa says, “We have opened criminal case of assault, attempted murder, and damage to public property. We also went to court to have the interdict extended.”

Trade Union Nehawu says a full investigation should be conducted

Nehawu Gracia Rikhotso says, “We cannot compromise the safety of the patients; we cannot compromise access into the facility through the action the members of the various unions embarked on. We will work together with the minister, together with the MEC and take those who actually led to this action to ensure that the full might of the law does actually apply.”

Unions met management on Friday and are expected to convene next Tuesday to find a solution to the impasse.

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