Two women from the Eastern Cape are set to appear in the New Brighton Magistrate’s Court on Friday following their arrest in connection with the abduction of two premature baby boys from Dora Nginza Hospital in Gqeberha. The arrests came just one day after the newborns were reported missing from the maternity ward, sending shockwaves through the province and prompting urgent calls to address hospital security protocols.
The disturbing incident occurred on Tuesday, triggering a swift police response and heightened concern across health institutions in the region. Thanks to rapid investigative work, the infants were safely recovered, and the suspects taken into custody by Wednesday.
Urgent Measures in the Eastern Cape to Improve Hospital Safety
During a press briefing on Thursday, Eastern Cape Health MEC Ntandokazi Capa confirmed that she had met with Dora Nginza Hospital’s management to address critical safety shortcomings that may have allowed the abduction to take place. Capa assured the public that both an internal investigation and a review of hospital protocols are now underway to prevent such security breaches in the future.
“This was a very serious incident that should never have happened, and we are deeply concerned about the safety of patients and staff at Dora Nginza Hospital,” said Capa. “As a department, we are really sorry that the incident occurred. We felt it was important to come here, meet with the families, and provide them the support they need.”
She emphasized that hospital leadership must take immediate steps to strengthen security, including improving surveillance systems, tightening access to maternity wards, and reinforcing staff training.
The abduction of the two newborns left the mothers devastated and traumatized. According to MEC Capa, both women have been provided with psychosocial support to help them process the traumatic experience and begin healing.
“Indeed, we have engaged with the families, and we’ve had a long discussion about their experiences,” said Capa. “There are a number of issues they raised, and one of the most important was the poor customer care and communication within the hospital.”
The families have expressed frustration over the lack of immediate information and guidance during the incident, highlighting a broader issue of patient care in some Eastern Cape health facilities. The Department of Health has committed to investigating these concerns as part of a broader review.
The abduction case has highlighted long-standing challenges in the Eastern Cape’s public health sector, including inadequate staffing, outdated infrastructure, and insufficient security. Dora Nginza Hospital, one of the region’s busiest maternity facilities, has faced scrutiny in the past for overcrowding and strained resources.
Health advocates say the incident must serve as a turning point for systemic change. “This is not just about a single crime—it’s about creating a safe and dignified environment for all patients,” said a representative from the South African Medical Association.
Provincial officials agree that while the immediate focus remains on ensuring justice for the families affected and protecting the babies, there is a deeper need to review the quality of healthcare service delivery across the Eastern Cape.
The local community in Gqeberha and across the Eastern Cape has reacted with outrage to the abduction, calling for greater accountability and transparency from hospital leadership. Community leaders have urged the provincial government to invest in upgrading hospital infrastructure and improving staff accountability.
“This incident has shattered our trust in a place that is supposed to offer care and protection,” said one local resident. “We want answers, and we want real change.”
The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that both suspects remain in custody and are facing charges related to kidnapping and endangering the welfare of a child. Their court appearance on Friday is expected to draw significant public and media attention.
As the Eastern Cape Department of Health works to reassure the public and strengthen hospital security measures, officials say rebuilding trust will require a long-term commitment to accountability, improved care, and community engagement.
“This was a heartbreaking and frightening event, but it’s also a moment for us to do better,” said MEC Capa. “We owe it to these families, and to every patient who walks through our hospital doors, to ensure this never happens again.”
Source- EWN
