Eastern Cape Health Workers Hijacked at Gunpoint While Delivering Vital Services
Traumatised NGO Staff Demand Justice After Violent Attack
One to One Africa provides critical health services to about 100 underserved villages in Ngqeleni
A team of community health workers in South Africa’s Eastern Cape province are receiving trauma counselling after being hijacked at gunpoint while delivering essential medical services to remote villages.
The Violent Incident
On the morning of 7 May, five staff members from non-profit organisation One to One Africa were ambushed just outside Mthatha. Armed men in a white Toyota Hilux forced their mobile clinic vehicle off the road and hijacked it at gunpoint.
The victims included a driver, two field workers, a nurse and a student doctor who were providing free health checks and chronic medication to underserved communities around Ngqeleni.
Community Impact
The organisation serves more than 100 villages in the region, where access to healthcare is extremely limited. Their converted 4×4 bakkie serves as a vital mobile clinic for children, the elderly and those unable to reach government facilities.
Village Chief Gideon Vulihlanga Sigcau expressed deep concern about the attack: “Our prayer is that One to One Africa does not leave Ngqeleni because they are our only hope in getting health services.”
Police Response Criticized
Gqibelo Dandala, the organisation’s director, described the traumatic experience: “We drove to the police station to open a case but were not assisted initially. This was a very traumatic experience.”
Dandala accused police of “dragging their feet” in the investigation, noting similar attacks on at least three other NGOs in the region. She called for urgent intervention from national and local leaders to protect humanitarian organisations.
Growing Security Concerns
Chief Sigcau revealed that rising crime has already driven away tourists and many residents from the coastal areas. His community has established a policing forum to protect vulnerable targets.
Eastern Cape police spokesperson Majola Nkohli confirmed a case was opened at Ngqeleni police station but no arrests have been made.
The stolen vehicle contained vital medications, disrupting healthcare delivery to some of South Africa’s most vulnerable communities.
Source: AllAfrica