A Delft family is demanding answers following the death of a 48-year-old woman who collapsed outside the Mfuleni Police Station on Thursday, 21 May 2026. The woman, who had been reported missing since 19 May, was identified by her family at the station after police circulated a message stating she was lost and unable to communicate her details.
The situation turned tragic as the family was preparing to leave the premises. According to family members and a friend present at the scene, the woman collapsed near the station entrance at approximately 3:00 p.m. The family alleges that their requests for the police to transport the woman to a hospital were refused, with officers directing them to wait for an ambulance.
Allegations of Delayed Assistance
The family friend reported a significant delay in emergency services, claiming that despite the collapse occurring in the afternoon, an ambulance did not reach the station until approximately 8:30 p.m. By the time paramedics arrived, they declared the woman dead at the scene. The family believes that the delay in medical intervention may have cost the woman her life.
Official Response and Next Steps
Police spokeswoman Thembakazi Mpendukana confirmed that an inquest docket has been opened regarding the incident. While police reports indicate the woman was 47 years old and reported missing on 18 May, official statements suggest she died of suspected natural causes.
A post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted to definitively determine the cause of death. As the investigation progresses, authorities will likely review the timeline of events and the handling of the woman’s medical needs while she was at the station.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the woman first go missing?
The woman went missing on Tuesday, 19 May 2026, after leaving her home for Elsies River at about 8:00 a.m.
What is the current status of the investigation?
Police have opened an inquest docket into the death, and a post-mortem examination will be conducted to establish the cause of death.
What did the family claim regarding the police response?
The family alleged that they begged the police to help transport the woman to the hospital after she collapsed, but were told to call an ambulance instead, which did not arrive for several hours.
What measures should be in place to ensure medical emergencies are handled immediately when they occur on police property?