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The North West Department of Health is investigating how a 43 year old male patient managed to stab three patients with a sharp object at Zeerust Hospital.

One of the patients was a 90 year old who regrettably has lost his life, as a result of alleged stabbing. Health MEC, Dr. Magome Masike who is currently attending the 19th AIDS Conference in Washington, US was informed and has sent his condolences to the bereaved family.

The two injured patients were sutured and are in a stable condition. The incident happened in the early hours of Wednesday, 25 July 2012.

When the patient was admitted on 22 July 2012 he complained of abdominal pains and according to Doctors at the hospital showed no sign of confusion or aggression.

We regret the incident and the relatives of the deceased and injured patients were informed of the incident. All the families have already received counselling. Following the aggressive behaviour the doctor advised that the patient was psychotic. He was then sedated and taken to Bophelong Psychiatric Hospital for further assessment and treatment. The matter was reported to the police.

The department will provide all the necessary support needed for the bereaved family. Patients who might have witnessed or in a way affected by the incident will continue to receive counselling.