Free State hospitals stripped bare by crime syndicates

Criminal syndicates are repeatedly stealing copper pipes, taps, and toilet flush mechanisms from hospitals across South Africa's Free State province. The thefts cost millions of rands and threaten patient care. The attacks target healthcare facilities directly. Essential water and sanitation systems are damaged or destroyed in the process. Hospital staff are left to manage without basic infrastructure. Patient safety is at risk. Authorities have not yet announced arrests or a plan to stop the syndicates.