The Lae District Administration has made a decision to close the Malahang Urban Clinic for an indefinite period after criminals broke in and stole more than K1,000 worth of antimalarial and antibiotic drugs.
The clinic was broken into through the patient washroom window in the early hours of Monday morning.
The Officer in Charge (OIC), Sister Daisy Basa said it was disappointing that criminals would want to target a health facility.
“For the community or whoever who did this to do such a thing, it’s frustrating”.
This is the third time this year the clinic has been attacked.
In May, the clinic’s solar panel was stolen. Last month in another break in, the thieves stole cash.
The Malahang Clinic serves a population of more than 30,000 within its catchment area and also receives referrals from other districts.
The patients are now being referred to other clinics.
Sr. Basa said the workers will be willing to work when the suspects responsible for this break in are caught.
The Lae Metropolitan Commander, Anthony Wagambie said this was an unfortunate incident and is calling on members of the community to assist in handing over the suspects to the police.
He said services like the clinic should be protected by the community.
