Criminal syndicates strip Free State hospitals of copper, taps, and flush mechanisms

Organized criminal groups are repeatedly stripping copper pipes, taps, and toilet flush mechanisms from Free State hospitals, causing millions of rands in damage and disrupting critical patient care. The thefts are ongoing and appear to be part of a coordinated syndicate operation, though the full extent of the impact on hospital operations remains unclear. This highlights a broader vulnerability in South Africa's public health infrastructure to metal theft.