Head of Nursing Services at the facility, Ezelle Wilson, says the kitchen lady and nurse implicated in the incident via CCTV camera footage had their disciplinary hearing on Monday, May 27. The facility, which falls under the Engo family care group, is awaiting the presiding officer’s report and final decision on the matter.

Meanwhile, Park Road police are looking into the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault. Wilson laments this is quite an unfortunate incident. 

“We always try to keep the communication open between us and the family of the residents,” says Wilson. The nursing head is aware of the fact that the family has taken the matter up with local police. “The South African Police Service (SAPS) did visit us and some statements were taken, that is as far as I know,” concludes Wilson.

The 79-year-old Elize Devenish sustained a broken arm and some other minor injuries in the incident which took place on Wednesday, May 22, at the dining hall. In the footage, the 79-year-old woman is seen laying on the floor for minutes in the video, with no one assisting after falling to the ground in the incident. It is this disregard that breaks Elize’s son, Charl’s heart: “Yeah, it’s bad, it’s not nice to see your mother on the floor like that.” His wife Elzarie adds: “We were all crying the first time we saw the video.” She says her husband, who is a tough man, broke down seeing his mother in those unfortunate circumstances. Elize was treated for her injuries on the day of the incident.

Police spokesperson, Thabo Covane, confirms a case of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm has been opened with Park Road police.

OFM News