The Town Two Clinic in Khayelitsha, South Africa, reopened on Monday after a closure of two weeks caused by an extortion case that involved the kidnapping of two security guards. The guards were taken hostage by extortionists who demanded a protection fee, prompting community leaders and the City of Cape Town to make the decision to assess risks and subsequently reopen the facility to serve its patients once again. On the reopening day, a significant number of patients arrived, indicating the high demand for the healthcare services offered at the clinic.

Community leaders emphasized the importance of keeping the clinic operational for the wellbeing of local residents, particularly those reliant on chronic medication, such as HIV patients. Lumkile Sizila, a community policing forum member, highlighted that if the clinic remained closed, it could have dire consequences for vulnerable patients, stating, "I live with HIV. If they close the clinic, I will be an ARV defaulter." To bolster security and ensure the clinic's safety, neighborhood watch members and police will monitor the facility daily, showcasing community resilience against criminal extortion.

This reopening reflects not only a local initiative to restore healthcare access but also points to the broader issue of security and extortion affecting public services in South Africa. The community's proactive measures to prevent future closures indicate a collective determination to combat crime and ensure that vital services remain available to those in need. The situation underscores the challenges faced by healthcare facilities in vulnerable areas and the responsibility of authorities to provide safe environments for both employees and patients alike.