In a recent incident, Gauteng EMS personnel also known as the Green Angels were robbed of their belongings at gun point while waiting for a security escort at a local filling station to go service a call at Angelo squatter camp in Boksburg.

The Department condemns the continuing senseless attacks on EMS personnel. These incidents do not only put lives the Green Angels in danger but make it difficult for them to provide emergency medical services to those who desperately need it.

In 2022 alone, there has been 11 incidents to date which include amongst others, an attempted sexual assault and high jacking, damage to ambulance after being hit with stones and armed robbery where personal belongings such as cell phones, wallets and bags were taken. This adds to the 12 incidents recorded in 2021.

“It is commendable that the team remains highly committed to serving the people of Gauteng and therefore we appeal to local communities to work with law enforcement agencies to bring an end to the attacks on emergency personnel,” pleaded Gauteng MEC for Health Dr Nomathemba Mokgethi, while emphasising that GDoH will continue to raise awareness on this matter and to engage community structures and the security cluster on finding solutions to curb the attacks.

Despite the attacks the Green Angels continue to respond to an increased volume of calls. Over 490 000 calls were received by the Gauteng EMS

communication centre between September 2021 and August 2022. *see attached the stats table.

Communities are urged to come forward with information that can help the police with their investigations related to the attacks on EMS personnel. Let’s not allow criminals to deny citizens their right to emergency medical services.