Luweero — Two health workers attached to Luweero General Hospital have been arrested for allegedly demanding Shs700,000 from a patient’s family before providing emergency medical treatment.
The suspects have been identified as Rebecca Nakiwala, 44, an orthopaedic officer, and Margaret Nabikolo, 42.
Their arrest followed a complaint by relatives of a patient who accused the health workers of demanding money before attending to the patient.
According to Savannah Regional Police spokesperson ASP Sam Twiineamazima, the patient, a woman who sustained a deep cut on her right leg during a domestic violence incident, was admitted to the hospital’s emergency ward on July 14.
Police allege that when the patient’s relatives sought further medical intervention the following day, the two health workers demanded Shs700,000 before treatment could continue.
Investigators said the family managed to raise Shs300,000, which was allegedly handed over to the suspects before police intervened.
The money was recovered and registered as evidence, while a case of extortion was opened at Luweero Central Police Station.
The arrest adds to ongoing concerns over corruption and illegal payments in some public health facilities, where patients and their attendants have repeatedly complained about being asked to pay for services that should be provided free of charge.
Authorities have in recent years intensified efforts to curb the practice through interventions by the Ministry of Health and the State House Health Monitoring Unit.
Police said investigations are continuing to establish whether the alleged extortion was an isolated incident or part of a wider pattern.
Members of the public have been encouraged to report cases involving bribery or illegal demands for money at health facilities.
