The Mpumalanga Department of Health has suspended a 39-year-old employee from Lydenburg Hospital, after she was arrested for being found in possession of human placentas.
According to the Department, the woman was apprehended by the South African Police Service (SAPS) in Extension 2, Mashishing, on Wednesday, September 17. She has since appeared in court and remains in custody.
The Department moved to clarify earlier reports about the case.
“The Department would also like to correct information published in the media about the incident that the human tissue referred to is actually placentas, obtained from women who give birth,” it said.
Mpumalanga Health MEC, Sasekani Manzini, commended the swift action by police and stressed that a departmental probe was under way.
“The MEC for Health, Ms. Sasekani Manzini has applauded the SAPS for the arrest. She is hopeful that the internal investigation by the Department will bring to light what actually transpired.”
Manzini warned that any other individuals implicated would face disciplinary and criminal action. “She further says any other person or employees who will be found to have taken part in this incident will be charged accordingly,” the Department added.
The MEC also pledged full cooperation with law enforcement.
“MEC says the department will work with the SAPS to ensure that justice is served,” the department continued.
The Department confirmed that while the employee remains in custody, she will still be formally served with her suspension letter.
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