Police are investigating two separate incidents where EMS crew were robbed and in one incident, two staffers and a patient were assaulted on Human Rights Day.
EMS officials have since pleaded for the attacks on their staff to come to an end.
At the first scene in Extension 4, Mfuleni, four suspects attacked the crew and wounded the patient.
Police spokesperson, Joseph Swartbooi, said the suspects dragged the driver of the ambulance out of the vehicle before turning on her colleague and the patient, robbing them of their belongings.
The trio were rushed to hospital for medical treatment.
“The circumstances surrounding this incident are still under investigation,” Swartbooi said.
“Reports suggest that crew members of the Western Cape Emergency Medical Services attended to a person in need of medical assistance on Friday, March 21, in Mfuleni Street, Extension 4 in Mfuleni.
“Four unknown armed men approached the driver of the vehicle instructing the driver to open the door.
“When she refused to open the door one of the suspects fired a single gunshot.
"The driver opened the door and she was dragged from the vehicle and assaulted and robbed of her belongings.
“The suspects assaulted the assistant of the driver as well as the patient who needed medical attention.
“All three victims were badly assaulted. The suspects fled the scene and are yet to be arrested.
“Mfuleni police are investigating three counts of attempted murder.”
Nadia Ferreira, spokesperson for the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness, said they appealed for the attacks to stop.
She said a second incident took place in Wesbank, where staff members were robbed.
“Ambulance 87 – Vehicle was stoned in Wesbank, Cardotte Street.
"SAPS was with the crew.
"Crew were not injured. Matter reported to SAPS,” she said.
“We are relieved that the crews are all fine physically and appreciate the support of SAPS.
“The department condemns violence against our essential workers who are dedicated to saving lives and providing critical care.
"We call on the community to support medical service personnel that are performing a public service."
Police added: “We appeal to anyone with information to please call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or alternatively use the mobile application MySAPS anonymous.”
Cape Argus