Fake Doctor Busted in Mpumalanga During Surprise Inspection
A 38-year-old man from the Democratic Republic of Congo was arrested on Wednesday afternoon for posing as a medical doctor at a practice in Embalenhle, Mpumalanga.
The arrest occurred around 2pm, during a routine compliance inspection by a local health inspector at a medical practice in Extension 07.
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Health Inspector Finds Man Treating Patients
According to police, the health inspector became suspicious after observing a patient exiting the consultation room. Upon entering, the inspector discovered an adult male conducting consultations and reportedly found five active patient files, including the one belonging to the patient who had just left.
The man claimed he was operating under the supervision of the practice owner, a registered medical doctor. However, he confessed to not being registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
SAPS Confirms Arrest and Ongoing Investigation
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Jabu Ndubane confirmed the arrest to IOL, saying the suspect was detained on the spot at Embalenhle SAPS. One of the patient files was seized as evidence.
“The suspect admitted he was working under the practice owner, a registered medical doctor, and further confessed that he is not registered with the HPCSA,” said Ndubane.
The man is facing charges under the Health Professions Act 56 of 1974 for impersonating a medical professional.
Authorities are also investigating the nature of his arrangement with the registered doctor and verifying the validity of his asylum documents.
Court Appearance Set for June 17
The suspect is scheduled to appear in the Evander Magistrate’s Court on Monday, June 17, and police have not ruled out additional charges as investigations continue.
Provincial Commissioner Warns Public to Remain Vigilant
Welcoming the arrest, Mpumalanga Provincial Commissioner Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi urged citizens to exercise caution when seeking medical care.
“We encourage the public to verify the credentials of medical professionals before seeking their services. The SAPS is committed to protecting communities from individuals who endanger lives through unlawful conduct,” said Mkhwanazi.
Investigations are ongoing to determine how long the suspect had been practising without proper credentials, and whether more people may have been affected.