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The armed robbery at the Letaba Hospital doctors’ residence may jeopardise 24-hour healthcare in the province.

“The healthcare system in Limpopo is under attack and crime intelligence needs to be placed in all health institutions,” according to Limpopo health MEC Dr Phophi Ramathuba, who went to the hospital shortly after the shooting.

“It is very clear that not only doctors, but all our healthcare professionals are worried now.

“Our clinics cannot be open for 24 hours any more.

“The doctors are saying ‘enough is enough’ and threatening to stop providing services from 4.30pm, because they don’t want to stay in an environment where they are not protected,” she said.

Ramathuba said steps would be taken to increase security measures at the health facilities in the province.

The Limpopo health department was discussing this with the State Security Agency.

The issue is now at the level of the minister of health and police. – ANA