Manafwa Police station closed over coronavirus cases

Business came to a standstill at Manafwa Police Station after two officers tested positive for COVID-19.

The station was temporarily closed to pave the way for fumigation as 26 officers were asked to self-isolate pending intervention from the health ministry officials, New Vision has learned. 

The station has 28 officers. By press time, a fresh team of Police officers from the region had been dispatched to replace their colleagues and ensure that criminals do not take advantage of what has happened.

A preliminary report said two Police officers at Manafwa tested positive for COVID-19. "Sample tests of 28 officers and six suspects taken from Manafwa Central Police Station on Monday confirm that two Police officers tested positive for COVID-19.

 ‘‘The officers have been evacuated to Mbale Hospital for treatment," the report read. According to the report, fumigation of the station is underway as the rest of the officers self-isolate for a mandatory period of two weeks. Health experts have hinted that community infections are on the increase. 

This puts Police officers at high risk because of their regular interaction with members of the public while executing their duties.

On Monday, Police spokesperson Fred Enanga announced the temporary closure of the Police headquarters in Naguru after a senior officer tested positive.  

Enanga said the officers who tested positive include a director based at Naguru and a traffic officer based in Jinja district. The duo is in quarantine in Entebbe and Jinja respectively. 

Addressing the press at the Media Centre, Enanga said the development forced the Police management to suspend operations at its headquarters in Naguru. "The security facility will be closed for three days to pave the way for disinfection that started on Monday," Enanga said. 
During the conference, Enanga said there will be routine COVID-19 testing of Police officers across the country.

Enanga said the Police chief, Okoth Ochola, had earlier issued a circular to all Police officers reminding them to follow the standard operating procedures (SOPs) aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19.

"All directors have been asked to come up with contingency plans detailing how their teams can remain operational even when they are not in the office," Enanga said.

He added that the Police chief has also ordered that a disinfectant walk-through booth be mounted at the Police headquarters.

The measure ensures reliable protection from any virus and guarantees safety for both staff and the public.