Rayagada (Sept 9): Five air conditioners (ACs) have been stolen from the Rayagada District Headquarters Hospital (DHH). Following the incident, local residents have raised questions regarding the security arrangements at the hospital. The theft has become a major topic of discussion despite the deployment of numerous security personnel on the premises.
According to available information, the 5 ACs were stolen from the Dialysis Ward and the COVID Ward. It was reported that 2 ACs were stolen on Sunday night, followed by another 3 on Monday night. The matter came to light the next morning, prompting hospital authorities to initiate an investigation.
Dr. Smita Pattnaik, the Additional District Chief Medical Officer (ADMO), lodged a written complaint at the Rayagada Police Station. Police arrived at the spot and launched an investigation.
Preliminary inquiries suggest that the thieves jumped over the rear boundary wall of the hospital to enter the premises and steal the ACs. There is speculation that someone with knowledge of electrical equipment repairs might be involved in the crime. How 5 ACs were stolen over two consecutive nights despite the heavy presence of security staff remains a mystery, which will be clear after further investigation. Police have visited the scene, and the investigation is ongoing.
