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The Health Department in Limpopo says it’s working with the police to stop any possible disruptions at its facilities. This is after out-of-contract security guards marched to the department’s headquarters, demanding to be rehired.
Meanwhile, some losing bidders for the security contracts were aggrieved about the awarding of tenders.
Polokwane security guards are today marching to the Limpopo Health Department to submit a memorandum. They protest non-compliant security. The guards allege companies are failing to pay minimum wage, provide uniforms, and settle overtime.#sabcnews #UpdateAtNoon pic.twitter.com/l7Df5n60Hd
— SABC News Radio (@SABCNews_Radio) February 24, 2026
One of the losing bidders had sought a High Court interdict but later withdrew it. Department spokesperson, Neil Shikwambana, says they noted attempted incidents of disruptions at some facilities.
“All facilities will remain fully operational, and security coverage will continue uninterrupted through this transition period. The safety and security of patients, health care workers and public health infrastructure remains our highest priority. We acknowledge that a transition of this nature may create uncertainties. Therefore, measures have been put in place to ensure continuity of service and to safeguard all health care facilities during and after the changeover. Equally, we have further noted the isolated incident of attempted disruption in certain parts of the province,” says Shikwambana.
Meanwhile, Police Spokesperson, Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, says they will act on those who might cause instability across all health facilities.
#sapsLIM SAPS in Limpopo has noted with serious concern information about potential instability and threats of disruption at various government health facilities across the province following the appointment of a new security service provider by the Department of Health.
The… pic.twitter.com/fQuP9TBJ3v
— SA Police Service (@SAPoliceService) February 28, 2026
Mashaba says “The South African Police Service in Limpopo has noted with serious concern information about potential instability and threats of disruption at various government health facilities across the province. This follows the appointment of a new security service provider by the Department of Health. Health Care facilities provide essential and lifesaving services to our communities. The police will therefore not allow any individual or group to disrupt these essential services or threaten the safety of workers and patients alike.”
He says anyone found to be involved in unlawful conduct, intimidation, or violence will be arrested and prosecuted.
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www.sabcnews.com, https://www.sabcnews.com/sabcnews/lp-health-dept-enlists-police-help-amid-security-tender-dispute/
