Suspected Covid-19 death at Chiredzi Hospital

…Chiredzi police detain journalist

TellZim Reporter

There is a suspected Covid-19 death at Chiredzi District
Hospital and police have detained a TellZim journalist who was coming from the
hospital to verify the case.

Beatific Gumbwanda was picked up by police in town today
reportedly at the instigation of a Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO)
officer soon after visiting the hospital.

Nurses at the hospital are said to be refusing to handle the
deceased’s body as they do not have personal protective equipment.

The deceased, a female, was reportedly admitted at the
hospital after being referred there by one Dr Dube who runs a surgery in town.

When contacted for comment, Chiredzi District Medical Officer
(DMO) Brian Dhladhlara told TellZim that there was a patient who got admitted
at the hospital yesterday with respiratory challenges, adding that there was panic
at the hospital.

He said specimens will be sent to Harare for tests.

Meanwhile, Media Institute of Southern Africa (Misa)
Masvingo provincial advocacy chairperson, Passmore Kuzipa has organised a
lawyer to assist Gumbwanda who is currently detained at Chiredzi Police
Station.