The patients had complained that they wanted to spend Christmas with their families. Some had been in the hospital for more than 18 months.

The escapes were blamed on the hospital's security, which is provided by a private contractor.
\"From the very first day some of the patients escaped it was noticed and reported, and steps were taken. We could not immediately replace the security because of the procurement processes that had to be followed,\" Kupelo said.
The security company has since been replaced, the number of guards increased from seven to 17, floodlights had been put in place and the fencing fixed with stronger materials.

Health authorities in the Eastern Cape have urged visitors to the province to go to their nearest TB clinic for a screening.