Sama shocked at doctor killing

2010-01-25 19:17

Johannesburg - The SA Medical Association (Sama) is shocked at the murder of a Johannesburg doctor saying criminals continue to act with impunity.

"It is our concern that criminals continue to terrorise our citizens, despite government efforts to root out criminal elements. Criminals continue to act with impunity," Sama chairperson Dr Norman Mabasa said on Monday.

Dr Jacobus van Staden, a 55-year-old Sama member and general practitioner from Kempton Park, was shot dead at his home on Friday evening.

Mabasa said in a statement that crime levels in South Africa remained at an unacceptable level, and the medical profession had not been spared.

"The assault on Dr Van Staden mirrors similar assaults on those citizens who have committed themselves to saving the lives of others."

Mabasa said the country could not afford to lose any more members of the medical profession who opted to stay in the country and make a difference.

- SAPA