Over 100 police officials have tested positive for the Coronavirus as South Africa continues to endure the pandemic and subsequent lockdown.
Speaking during a presentation on Wednesday, April 29, Major General Leon Rabie confirmed the number of cases.
Rabie explained that 2917 police officers have been tested for Covid-19 and the results came back negative for 1795 officers while 103 tested positive.
Over 1000 officials placed under quarantine. Out of the 103 positive cases, 10 have since recovered and 89 were placed in isolation.
Three officers required hospitalisation and one died. Rabie explained that 45 police buildings have been evacuated while 39 were decontaminated and since reopened.
“The biggest threat, from a resource perspective, remains a reduced workforce, due to increasing levels of infections.
In addition to preventative measures implemented, levels of infection and the impact on staffing levels are constantly being monitored,” read Rabie’s presentation.
The official says that reserve options have been explored, should the need arise to bolster the force.
“A reserve capability, currently performing non-critical functions, has been identified to be deployed to critical functions if and when the need arises. Measures are implemented to limit the exposure of personnel.”
Personal protective equipment including masks, gloves and hand sanitiser has been procured to ensure the safety of employees, especially those in the field.
It was gathered that the police response to the crisis will cost the nation around R2.8 billion.
