JOHANNESBURG - Three women will spend the weekend behind bars after they were arrested for the alleged theft and illegal sale of termination-of-pregnancy medication.
It is alleged that the stolen medication was sold to women waiting in the Choice on Termination of Pregnancy (CTOP) queue at Stretford Community Health Centre in Orange Farm, Johannesburg.
The women attached to the Expanded Public Works Programme were arrested on Thursday and are expected to appear in court on Monday.
The Gauteng Department of Health welcomed the arrest as it detailed the investigations into the incident which happened on 24 August.
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According to the Gauteng Department of Health spokesperson Steve Mabona, the suspects allegedly stole two boxes of Cytotec tablets and 24 loose tablets after breaking a padlock securing a medication cupboard.
Subsequent to investigations, the three women were arrested.
"A sting operation was conducted, which led to the apprehension of one of the suspects, who allegedly sold the stolen medication to clients waiting in the CTOP queue at the facility.
“A client who had purchased the tablets assisted investigators by identifying the individual who sold the medication. Further investigations led to the implication of additional accomplices,” Mabona said.
Mabona said the department condemns this incident, adding that such criminal conduct undermines the integrity of the public healthcare system.
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He also cautioned against purchasing termination of pregnancy medication illegally as it has significant health risks.
“Women seeking termination of pregnancy services can access comprehensive support, including pre- and post-termination counselling, medical and surgical termination of pregnancy services, psychosocial support, and health education.”