Central SA
Death of patient at Witrand hospital probed─── KEKELETSO MOSEBETSI 15:37 Mon, 23 Jun 2025
Investigations are continuing into the death of a patient who passed away in the Witrand Psychiatric Hospital in North West on 12 June.
The incident prompted swift action from the health department, following public concern over reports circulating on social media.
On Saturday (21/6), North West Health MEC Sello Lehari led a high-level delegation to Witrand Hospital in response to the allegations regarding the death of a long-term patient at the facility. Lehari’s spokesperson Tshegofatso Mothibedi said the MEC led a high-level delegation to Witrand Hospital on Saturday (21/6) following reports on social media regarding the alleged death of a long-term patient.
Interim Superintendent-General Mosela Mokhutshwane-Kaudi and senior officials from the department joined Lehari. The visit was conducted under Re Bona Ka Matlho. The department’s oversight initiative seeks to proactively engage with health institutions and promptly respond to critical issues.
Mothibedi said Witrand Psychiatric Hospital is one of the province’s leading specialised institutions, providing care for intellectual disabilities, psychiatric conditions, and patients requiring physical medicine and rehabilitation services. Given the hospital’s significance, the allegations warranted immediate verification.
During the visit, Lehari and his delegation met with the hospital’s management team to gather information. Mothibedi confirmed the matter has been referred to the authorities and is under active investigation.
Lehari has directed the formation of an internal investigation team composed of senior officials, including the Provincial Head of Clinical Services, legal experts, and seasoned health service managers. They’re tasked with a comprehensive review of the incident and must present their findings in two weeks.
“As a department, we take these allegations with utmost seriousness. The safety and dignity of our patients are non-negotiable. While we await the outcome of the investigation, we are conducting our own internal inquiry to ensure the facts are established and any necessary actions are taken swiftly,” said Lehari.
He reiterated the department's commitment to transparency and accountability. Lehari assured the public that the Department of Health would cooperate fully with SAPS and relevant authorities to ensure a conclusive investigation.
