The plot thickens!

DUAL LOYALTIES Two weeks have passed since the bomb blast, and doctor Samoe considers his options. - What can I do? There must be a way to ensure people are safe and feel safe around here. Hundreds of people depend on me… What can I do? A knock at the door snaps Doctor Samoe back to the present. - Come in. - Lieutenant-Colonel Klahan asks to see you. - I’ve been dreading this - Thank you Anong. tell him to come in…and can you make us some tea? - Good morning Colonel, what can I do for you? - Good morning, doctor. If you have time, I would like to exchange some ideas on how to increase security at the hospital.

I was thinking exactly the same thing. The bomb has shaken my personnel and the patients alike. This is not an ideal environment for a hospital! - Well, we have secured the perimeter. And now nobody enters the hospital without a thorough checking. - So I am aware! Complaints from staff have come in about rough treatment of certain patients! There are concerns we are limiting access for those who need care most. - I totally understand your discomfort, doctor. But unusual times require unusual measures. - I guess so. - But here is one concern I would like to share with you. - Go ahead! - I can guarantee that nobody enters the hospital compound while armed.

But I can do little to prevent harm planned from the inside! - Colonel, I’m not following! Please be clear! - Even if someone comes unarmed to the hospital, it doesn’t mean he has no intention of doing harm in the hospital…or elsewhere! A bit of extra information will help us prevent bombs, like the one that hit the hospital! - A bit of “extra information”?! - Yes. I am sure you understand. Knowing details about the patients of this hospital… - what brought them here, who comes to visit, will help us single out potential insurgent supporters…and ultimately prevent other terrorist attacks! - Are you asking what I think you’re asking? - Are you aware that you are asking for privileged information?

That you are asking me to break the patient-doctor trust? - I am aware of the implication of what I am asking. But think how many lives could be saved if you make a little effort, doctor. We are talking not only of the security of this hospital, but the security of your country! I would be careful before acting in a way that can be seen as support of a terrorist organisation! - Tea. Here we go. - Thank you, Anong. - Colonel, I think you have made your point clear. And the only thing I can tell you is that I will consider your….your “suggestion”. - Yes, Doctor Samoe, think about it and think carefully.

Remember: unusual circumstances require unusual measures!