South African Association of Paediatric surgeons: regarding the arrest of two South African doctors

South African Association of Paediatric surgeons statement:

Dear Colleagues,
Losing a patient is an experience that all surgeons have faced at some point in their practice. Such an event is particularly tragic when a child is involved and SAAPS expresses its deepest sympathy for the bereaved family.  
The circumstances surrounding operative and peri-operative deaths always require investigation.  Such an investigation should be conducted in a fair and transparent manner that is regulated by law. The Health Professionals Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as the mandated regulatory body bears this responsibility.  We support the statement by the President of the HPCSA, Dr. Kgosi Letlape that warns against criminalising professional acts. The process of investigation into death following a procedure under anaesthetic includes a formal inquest to identify and pronounce on the cause of death. This may then be followed by such regulatory or legal processes, including criminal prosecution when appropriate, as determined by the findings of the inquest.  “Trial by media” and criminal litigation without following the established process is concerning. 
Echoing the sentiments of other professional associations, SAAPS reiterates its commitment to a thorough investigation in a fair and transparent manner when such tragic adverse events occur. The aim, other than determining culpability, should be to identify opportunities to prevent similar occurrences in the future.  
SAAPS is willing to contribute professional expertise to any inquiry established by the courts or an appropriate regulatory body."
SAAPS executive committee