By 
JOHANNESBURG — The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has issued a strong condemnation following the theft of government property at the Hillbrow Community Health Centre, reiterating its zero-tolerance stance on the misuse of public resources.
The incident came to light on July 7, 2026, when a facility security officer discovered that 45 boxes of A4 printing paper were missing. The alleged theft involved three workers from the Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP). Following the discovery, a criminal case was immediately registered at the Hillbrow Police Station.
According to details provided by the South African Police Service (SAPS), law enforcement officers arrested the three suspects on July 17, 2026. The individuals were subsequently granted bail on July 20, 2026. Police investigations revealed that while the suspects offered to return the stolen paper, only 21 of the 45 missing boxes have been recovered so far. The criminal proceedings remain ongoing before the courts.
In addition to the SAPS investigation, the GDoH has launched its own internal administrative inquiry. An investigating officer has been appointed to oversee the matter, and the department confirmed that appropriate disciplinary action will follow once the internal processes conclude, in line with relevant legislative frameworks.
The department stressed that theft directly compromises healthcare service delivery. Because every item is purchased using taxpayer funds to support patient care, the diversion of resources hurts facility operations and undermines public trust in the healthcare system.
The GDoH affirmed that it will maintain full cooperation with law enforcement agencies to ensure those responsible are held accountable.
