By DALCY LULUA
After the recent spate of looting, Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) is now facing a significant challenge in replenishing its blood supply.
This was mentioned by PMGH chief executive officer, Dr Paki Molumi, stating that it was crucial for individuals to reflect upon the fact that the blood they received, which played a vital role in saving their lives, was generously donated by the dedicated staff of the very businesses they looted.
He said this when giving an update on the aftermath of the chaotic events in the city.
He said it was dire, with PMGH reporting nine fatalities and 51 injuries over the past two days.
Dr. Molumi disclosed that all nine deceased individuals were male, with four succumbing on arrival, four shortly after arrival, and one during post-operation.
Of the 60 people admitted to PMGH, 57 were male, and three were female.
Dr. Molumi detailed the nature of injuries, citing 30 gunshot wounds, six bush knife cuts, six injuries from bottles/glass, and five from burns. Currently, 28 individuals remain hospitalized, with 15 in the Surgical ward and 13 in the Orthopedic ward.
Additionally, 24 individuals with minor injuries have been treated and discharged
Highlighting the impact of the looting on medical resources, Dr. Molumi emphasized: “All the casualties were opportunists involved in looting stores. Our dedicated staff worked tirelessly to save the lives of those who survived and will be discharged.
Unfortunately, many arrived with severe blood loss, depleting our blood stock. Numerous business establishments, including Brian Bell Group, CPL Group, and others supporting the blood drive, were looted.”
The plea is clear: “Now that these businesses are looted, PMGH is struggling to restock blood. I hope these individuals realize and reconsider their actions, recognizing that the life-saving blood they received was a result of the altruism of the very business staff they targeted.”
