Mental health patient set bed on fire 

The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has confirmed that there were no fatalities and injuries sustained after a ward at Charlotte Maxeke Academic Hospital, in Johannesburg, caught fire on Monday afternoon.

In a statement, the department said the fire was caused by a mental health patient admitted at the female psychiatry ward after demanding to be discharged.

“The City of Johannesburg fire department also arrived to address the situation and is currently working to clear the smoke from the affected area,”added Motalatale Modiba, GDoH head of communication.

The department further indicated that as a precautionary measure, patients were moved from the ward to allow for a thorough investigation to take place. “Police are on-site to assist with this process.”

Hospital management and staff have taken immediate measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all patients in the ward.