[ad_1]
Two experienced police officers have died from the coronavirus, the national police administration confirmed Thursday.
The deaths occur at a time when more than 370 officers tested positive for the virus, with the majority of cases reported in the Western Cape.
In a statement, the National Police Commissioner, General Khehla Sitole, described the two as “brave and exemplary” members, who had “served and protected the South African people with the utmost diligence.”
READ | However, another Western Cape police station closes due to Covid-19.
One of the victims was a non-commissioned officer based in KwaZulu-Natal. The other was a captain stationed at the Eastern Cape.
Sitole paid tribute to the two officers, who “risked their lives to ensure that the people of South Africa are protected against crime and against this virus.”
“I also conveyed my sincere condolences to the families of our fallen colleagues and thanked them for the decades that members have served at SAPS, as well as for allowing them to serve during these difficult times.”
Died
The NCO died two weeks ago from Covid-19. He joined the police as a student officer in 1993 and had 27 years of service.
The captain began his career in 1991 and was 29 years of service at the time of his death. He died on Monday.
“While our goal as an organization is to ensure that we prevent, combat and investigate crime, the good health, safety and well-being of our members remain a responsibility that service administration does not take lightly,” said the police spokesman. Brigadier Vish Naidoo said.
READ | Western Cape proposes to move to Level 3 block as soon as possible
A total of 55 officers have recovered from the virus.
“In response to the increase in numbers in the Western Cape, a delegation from the national steering committee visited the province to provide the necessary support to ensure that protocols for containing and administering Covid-19 are implemented accordingly,” said Naidoo.
Advice
SAPS ‘Employee Health and Welfare component provides the necessary psychological support to infected and affected police members and their families through a series of interventions, such as counseling, he added.
“The establishment of a 24/7 Covid-19 hotline is another measure that has been implemented to ensure continued support for our infected and affected members and their families.
SHOULD READ | All online purchases are allowed except alcohol and tobacco.
“The hotline is being staffed by SAPS psychologists, occupational health experts, chaplains, legal experts, as well as members of operating environments to help frontline members implement closure regulations accordingly,” Naidoo said.
“Regular compliance visits are also conducted weekly at all SAPS facilities, including police stations, to ensure that all SAPS members have the necessary PPE (personal protective equipment) and crucial items to protect them. and visitors at all front-line points against the virus. “
[ad_2]
