Coronationville crime rates a risk to patients, staff

JOHANNESBURG - Gauteng Health is calling for heightened police presence as crime spirals out of control in Coronationville.

The department says that there were two hijackings outside the hospital over the festive season.

The hospital has reached out to local police while the health department explores other options.

"The partnerships we have with SAPS and CPF are very important," said Arthur Manning.

READ: Crime In SA | Councillor safety in the spotlight

"We asked the SAPS to increase patrols in the area."

Manning said preventative measures should be taken to prevent crime.

Gus Malgas, chairman of Sophiatown CPF, said the hospital has become a soft target.

He said patients and staff are being mugged.

"Security needs to be beefed up, there needs to be a backup system," Malgas said.