Netcare Milpark Hospital under spotlight after denying treatment to a shot JMPD officer. Picture Supplied
By Staff Writer
A JMPD officer was denied treatment at Netcare Milpark Hospital due to the City’s R35 million debt, sparking an investigation.
Johannesburg — The City of Johannesburg has raised serious concerns after a Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officer, who had been shot in the line of duty, was reportedly denied urgent medical treatment at Netcare Milpark Hospital due to the City’s outstanding debt.
In a media statement released Thursday, the City confirmed it is working to resolve unpaid medical bills and to clarify misinformation surrounding the incident. “We are extremely disappointed to learn that a JMPD officer, critically injured while serving the public, was turned away from receiving life-saving care,” the statement read. “This is unacceptable. The health and well-being of our officers must never be compromised.”
The City has launched an internal investigation to understand how such a critical failure occurred and to prevent it from happening again. Officials say they review procedures with Netcare Milpark Hospital, the Department of Labour, and other relevant parties to ensure all injury-on-duty claims are processed efficiently and without delay.
The City also supported the injured officer and his family during this period. “Our thoughts are with the officer and his loved ones. We are committed to ensuring he receives the care he needs and deserves,” the statement concluded.
Meanwhile, Gauteng Member of the Provincial Legislature Michael Sun sharply criticised the city, revealing that Netcare Milpark Hospital has been forced to turn away JMPD officers—including the one who was shot—due to an unpaid debt reportedly totalling R35 million.
“I’ve just learnt that Netcare Milpark Hospital cannot treat a JMPD officer who has been shot because the city has failed to pay its bills,” Sun said. “This is a complete betrayal of the brave men and women who risk their lives for our safety. Government incompetence is now endangering the very people who protect us.”
Sun further condemned the ruling coalition for what he described as a gross failure of leadership. “This isn’t just about financial mismanagement. It’s about real people, real lives. We are failing our public servants in the worst possible way.
The City of Johannesburg has pledged to provide updates as the investigation progresses and corrective measures are implemented.
