Mpumalanga Hospital Cleaner Arrested for Allegedly Selling Placentas, Granted Bail
A hospital cleaner from Mpumalanga, identified as Rose Mnisi, has been arrested for allegedly stealing placentas from Lydenburg Hospital and attempting to sell them in Mashishing. She was granted R10,000 bail but remains in custody pending payment.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
Rose Mnisi, 39, who worked as a cleaner in the maternity ward, appeared in the Mashishing District Court on Thursday. She faces charges of illegal possession of human tissue. Her arrest has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about the security of medical waste at the hospital.
According to Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, a provincial police spokesperson, the arrest followed a tip-off received by the Lydenburg K9 Unit. Officers were informed that a woman was allegedly seeking buyers for human body tissue.
The Discovery and Investigation
Mnisi was arrested on September 18 while hitchhiking towards Mbombela, the capital city of Mpumalanga. Police found her carrying a plastic bag containing human placentas. The placentas were reportedly wrapped and ready for sale.
The human tissue has been sent for forensic analysis. Detectives are investigating how the placentas were stolen and whether a larger trade in human organs is occurring. Mdhluli confirmed that police are investigating whether Mnisi acted alone or was part of a larger network, also examining possible security breaches at the hospital.
Reactions and Next Steps
Acting provincial police commissioner Major-General Zeph Mkhwanazi praised the community for providing the tip-off that led to the arrest. He stated, “This incident once again reflects deep moral decay in society. The police will continue to work with communities in addressing crime.”
The provincial health department has suspended Mnisi in absentia. Officials will enforce her suspension letter if she attempts to return to work after her release on bail. Mnisi is scheduled to appear in court again on November 4, when police will provide an update on their investigation.
Hospital Security Concerns
The incident highlights major concerns regarding security protocols at Lydenburg Hospital. Investigators are determining how Mnisi managed to steal the placentas and whether existing protocols are adequate to prevent future incidents. The investigation aims to identify any systemic vulnerabilities that could be exploited.
