NHW member attacked with panga

GEORGE NEWS - A patrol member of the Blanco Neighbourhood Watch (BNW), Keith Clark (74), who sustained a severe injury to his left hand in an attack, has been discharged from hospital.

Clark and a fellow patrol member, Natius Anker, were attacked by a group of four men, two of whom carried pangas, on Thursday evening 9 September.

The attack came after Clark and Anker confronted the group after curfew, at approximately 22:20, near the graveyard in Maitland Street.

"After requesting one of the men to empty the contents of his bag, the suspect allegedly drew his panga. He was asked numerous times to drop the weapon, but refused," said BNW chairman Deon van der Rijst.

A fight ensued between the neighbourhood watch members and the group of men, resulting in the blow to Clark's hand that nearly severed some of his fingers.

"The patient arrived at the hospital with open fractures and tendon/muscle injuries [to his hand]," said district spokesperson for health, Nadia Ferreira.

"He received emergency care in the EC and was transferred to a ward awaiting semi-emergent surgery. He was operated on the emergency list the following evening. He was discharged in a satisfactory condition for follow-up at our outpatient department in two weeks. We wish the patient all the best with his recovery."

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Anker was sprayed with pepper spray and with Clark's injuries they were forced to retreat. Anker's vehicle was also badly damaged by the suspects who fled on foot.

No arrests have been made. Anyone with information is asked to contact the George detectives on 044 803 4715.

Keith Clark is recovering after he was discharged from hospital.