Two St Elizabeth Hospital employees in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape, have been shot and killed at their residence.
The couple, a professional nurse and a deputy director at St Elizabeth Hospital, lost their lives at their homestead in Parlmerton village on Wednesday.
Eastern Cape health MEC Ntandokazi Capa said the incident is gravely concerning.
“Losing a life is one too many. It is even more difficult when a health professional is involved, as they play a crucial role in serving our communities,” said Capa.
She stated that the couple died at a time when the country needed more expertise in the field of healthcare.
The department stated that it cannot release the names of the deceased until they have informed their next of kin.
“These colleagues have departed at the time when the country relied heavily on their expertise as professionals who were serving their citizens with commitment and integrity,” said Capa.
“On behalf of the entire health department, we’re wishing the families and their friends courage and peace during this time of mourning.”
Motive for the killing unknown
Capa called on police to act swiftly to ensure that perpetrators of these heinous crimes are brought to justice.
The motive for the killing is not known, and police have started criminal investigations.
This is a second incident involving health professionals brutally killed in less than a week.
Earlier in the week, Sunday World reported that a 56-year-old ambulance practitioner was gunned down shortly after knocking off from work in Jansenville.
According to the department, Piet Tieman had just finished his day shift. He later went to a nearby shop when he was shot while still in his uniform.
The police said they were investigating his murder, but they have not made any arrests.
Police spokesperson Warrant Officer Majola Nkohli said the cops have launched a manhunt for two suspects linked to the murder.
