Quick action as fire breaks out in Sebokeng Hospital’s emergency unit

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More than 30 patients were evacuated from the casualty department at Sebokeng Hospital on Thursday afternoon after a fire broke out inside the unit.

The Gauteng Department of Health confirmed that a fire occurred in a psychiatry holding room located within the Casualty unit.

This room is designated for mental healthcare users who are temporarily housed while waiting for admission to psychiatric wards, which are presently at full capacity.

“It is alleged that a patient ignited a blanket, causing smoke to spread throughout parts of the department.

Fire contained swiftly

“Patients who were evacuated included emergency cases, mental healthcare users, and obstetric patients. No patient injuries or fatalities have been reported as a result of the incident.

MEDIA STATEMENT || FIRE CONTAINED AT SEBOKENG HOSPITAL WITH NO INJURIES
REPORTED pic.twitter.com/a0vfeItKiC

— Gauteng Health (@GautengHealth) March 19, 2026

“During the response, security personnel and staff members acted swiftly to contain the situation and ensure the safety of all patients,” the department said.

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The incident has been reported to law enforcement, and a full investigation is currently underway.

Hospital management is arranging for affected patients to be moved to appropriate wards while services in the unit continue.