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“This is a simple transfer case and should not result in violence and destruction of property,” said Chief Supt Chiwoko. “Our duty is to maintain law and order and as a result we have arrested 12 suspects who will help us with investigations.”
Chief Supt Chiwoko said peace had been restored at the hospital and business was going on as usual.
There was heavy police presence at the hospital when The Herald arrived in the afternoon.
Police had gone into a closed-door meeting with Dr Thistle and a four-member delegation from the Salvation Army Headquarters in Harare led by Lieutenant Colonel Kazhi Mupingani.
After the almost two-hour meeting, Lt-Col Mupingani declined to comment, saying he was not allowed to talk to the media.
Dr Thistle also declined to comment saying: “Under the church, we are not allowed to comment. So, I can’t give you any interview.”
Mashonaland Central Governor Advocate Martin Dinha said in an interview that he had called for an urgent meeting with the Salvation Army territorial commander Ms Venus Chigariro.
He said he wanted to convince the church leadership to rescind the decision to send Dr Thistle back to Canada.
The delegation was led by provincial administrator Mr Josphat Jaji and comprised the officer commanding Mashonaland Central Senior Assistant Commissioner Lee Muchemwa, provincial medical director Dr Clemence Tshuma and provincial intelligence officer Mr Obey Mashingaidze.
“As we speak, the provincial delegation is in an emergency meeting with the Salvation Army territorial commander Ms Venus Chigariro and her team,” said Adv Dinha.
“The meeting is meant to convince the church leadership to rescind their decision. We understand the people’s anger and hope the church will be sensitive to these developments.”
Those interviewed said they wanted Dr Thistle to remain at the hospital, saying he was dedicated to serving the Chiweshe community.
Online Reporter