Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba
By Lerato Mpembe
Limpopo Premier Phophi Ramathuba has announced that a 27-year-old man has been arrested in connection with the kidnapping and rape of two nurses at Ga-Chuene Clinic. 
Incident Overview
On 10 January 2025, during the early hours, a heavily armed man entered Ga-Chuene Clinic near Lebowakgomo. He overpowered three security guards, tying them up, and then abducted two nurses who were on night duty. The suspect led the nurses to a nearby bush where he sexually assaulted them. The victims were missing for several hours and reappeared around 5:00 am. 
Arrest Details
The suspect was apprehended at his residence in Ga-Maja village. During the arrest, police recovered a stolen 9mm pistol and nine live rounds of ammunition. Additional items, including laptops, smartphones, a panga, and cash, suspected to be linked to other crimes in the area, were also seized. 
Criminal Background
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was released on parole in November 2024. He is linked to over 10 serious cases in the Lebowakgomo area, including a house robbery and attempted murder in Ga-Molepo on 17 January 2025, an attempted business robbery at Ga-Thaba Clinic, and a house robbery and rape in a village on R37. 
Official Responses
Premier Ramathuba expressed deep concern over the incident, stating, “Unfortunately, this brutal and horrific crime happened to them while they were on duty.” She confirmed that more arrests are anticipated as investigations continue. 
Limpopo Health MEC Dieketseng Mashego condemned the attack, describing it as “appalling” and a “serious setback” to the Department of Health’s mission to provide 24-hour clinic services. She questioned, “How can we convince our staff to work night shifts to serve the community if the same community turns against them in such a violent manner?” 
Clinic Operations and Security Measures
Following the incident, the Ga-Chuene Clinic was temporarily closed. The Limpopo Department of Health initially announced the reopening of the clinic with operations limited to weekdays from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. However, this decision was later rescinded, and the clinic remains closed indefinitely to address safety concerns and provide support to the affected staff. 
The department is committed to improving security measures at all healthcare facilities across the province to ensure that healthcare workers can perform their duties without fear for their safety. Community members are advised to seek healthcare services at nearby facilities such as Maja (Polokwane), Soetfontein (Polokwane), and Block B (Lebowakgomo) until the situation at Ga-Chuene Clinic is resolved. 
Community and Union Reactions
The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) in Limpopo has called for enhanced security measures at healthcare facilities, especially those operating 24-hour services. DENOSA’s provincial chairperson, Vincent Mukhari, emphasized the need for immediate action to ensure the safety of healthcare workers. 
Community members have expressed mixed reactions to the clinic’s closure. While some understand the need for safety, others are concerned about access to healthcare services. The department has urged the community to support efforts in enhancing security and to report any suspicious activities to authorities. 
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