The parents of a 22-year-old mentally ill man have raised serious concerns about patient safety at Mahikeng Provincial Hospital after their son allegedly escaped from the psychiatric ward. The family claims the hospital failed to notify them of the incident, leaving them to discover the news through social media.
Reotshepile Lefifi, who was undergoing treatment, was found by residents in Slopo Village, approximately three kilometers from the hospital, still dressed in his patient attire. Locals spotted him after he started a fire in an empty shack and later shared his photo on social media to locate his family.
Family Outraged Over Hospital’s Negligence
The Lefifi family expressed shock and frustration, stating they were never officially informed of their son’s escape.
“I was not even informed that the boy had escaped,” said a family member. “I only found out through WhatsApp and social media. When the nurse called to ask if he was at home, I was shocked—I left him in their care, believing he was safe.”
The family has accused the North West Department of Health of endangering patients and demanded accountability.
“I want the Department of Health to take responsibility for my son’s well-being,” the parent said. “This should be a wake-up call to ensure all patients in their care are safe.”
Hospital Admits Security Lapse
The North West Department of Health confirmed the escape, acknowledging that Lefifi and other patients had damaged surveillance cameras, broken through the ceiling, and jumped the hospital fence.
*”The patient was under 72-hour observation when the incident occurred,”* a department spokesperson said. “There was substantial damage to the facility, but we managed to recover him and return him to our care.”
Following the breach, Lefifi was transferred to Bophelong Psychiatric Hospital for further treatment.
Community Members Raise Alarm
A Setlopo Village resident recounted discovering Lefifi near the burning shack.
“I saw smoke and rushed to check—the shack was empty, so I knew something was wrong,” the witness said. “When I pulled him out, I noticed he was wearing hospital clothes. My cousin posted his photo online to help find his family.”
The incident has sparked concerns over security measures at the hospital, with calls for improved safeguards to prevent future escapes.
The Department of Health has yet to respond to the family’s demands for a formal explanation regarding the lapse in communication and patient safety protocols.
