Clinic chaos: Govt deploys police as foreigners denied treatment

Helen Joseph Hospital

Cape Town – The government has expressed serious concern over recent incidents where foreign nationals were blocked from accessing healthcare services at public facilities by certain groups and communities.

In a statement, government condemned the actions as unlawful and contrary to the Constitution, warning that such behaviour undermines the country’s democratic values.

“While government understands the genuine frustrations of many citizens regarding the pressures on public services, including overburdened clinics and exhausted healthcare workers, members of the public are urged to raise such concerns through lawful and appropriate channels,” the statement read.

“Taking the law into one’s own hands is unacceptable.”

The government reiterated that Section 27(1) of the Constitution guarantees everyone — regardless of nationality or immigration status — the right to access healthcare. Blocking individuals based on their origin was described as a violation of both national laws and South Africa’s international obligations.

“This right is not subject to an individual’s nationality or immigration status. Denying individuals healthcare based on their origin is a violation of our laws and values as a nation. Additionally, South Africa is a signatory to several regional and international agreements that aim to ensure access to healthcare for its citizens and, in some cases, for individuals within its borders,” said the statement.

The incidents, which have reportedly occurred in several provinces, prompted a security response. The South African Police Service (SAPS), working alongside the Department of Health, has deployed Public Order Police units to affected areas to maintain peace and ensure uninterrupted access to medical services.

Authorities say individuals found intimidating patients or obstructing healthcare access will face arrest and prosecution.

“Law enforcement will continue to apply a zero-tolerance approach for lawlessness,” government warned.

Meanwhile, the Department of Home Affairs, in collaboration with police, will continue enforcing immigration laws. Government emphasised that illegal immigration would not be tolerated and reaffirmed efforts to strengthen border control and documentation processes.

While addressing migration concerns, government said it is also expanding resources and personnel in the public health sector to alleviate systemic pressures.

Communities are urged to uphold the rule of law, respect human dignity, and work together to build a united and inclusive South Africa,” the statement said.

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