SA: MEC Mamabolo condemns the vandalism of Olievenhoutbosch clinic

8th March 2018

SA: MEC Mamabolo condemns the vandalism of Olievenhoutbosch clinic

Photo by: Bloomberg

Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development (DID) MEC, Jacob Mamabolo, condemns in the strongest of terms the vandalism of Olievenhoutbosch Community Centre and Clinic on Tuesday night, 07 March 2018. The damage was allegedly caused by protesters who later blockaded the R55 road with burning tyres. It is reported that a group of protesters burnt down a guard-house, damaged a gate and stole computers. Windows and doors were also broken. The damage to the clinic is so severe that it is not operational.

“This act of vandalism has a serious ripple effect for the community of Olievenhoutbosch. It is absolutely senseless and backward that people would destroy a clinic because they demand something else. A clinic like this one is an important facility for the community especially for children and the elderly,” Mamabolo said.

He added that this is the most barbaric act and those behind it have robbed the Olievenhoutbosch community of the right to public health. “Whilst we understand the public’s right to peaceful protests, the torching and vandalism of public buildings is a crime. It is illegal, unacceptable and has to stop immediately”, Mamabolo reiterated.

Through the iCare We Care campaign DID has been leading the charge for communities to start appreciating the importance of public infrastructure, the common heritage of society. Mamabolo said: “It is most unfortunate that there are still people in our communities who show no regard for facilities such the clinic which is now not serving them.”

Launched in Bekkersdal in Gauteng’s Western Development Corridor on the 13th of July 2016, campaign continues to raise awareness and change how communities relate with public property such as clinics, schools, libraries and community centres among others.The Gauteng Provincial government working together with the Moral Regeneration Movement will continue visiting various communities as part of the Ntirhisano Programme so that they join the call for the protection and preservation of public infrastructure such as clinics, libraries, schools and hospitals among others.

DID calls for law enforcement to investigate and arrest those who are behind this crime against the people of Olivenhoutbosch.
 

Issued by Gauteng Department of Infrastructure Development