THE New Guinea Islands Divisional Police headquarters in Kokopo was shut down today after an officer tested positive for Covid-19.
East New Britain Provincial Police Commander, Chief Inspector Joseph Tabali said disinfection and spraying of premises at the divisional headquarter at Ralum in Kokopo town is being undertaken.
He confirmed the positive case has been isolated at the Gunan Na Niuvia Isolation centre at Takubar outside of Kokopo town.
Officers will resume duty on Monday (April 19).
In the meantime, police officers have been encouraged to assist in the eight check points set up around the province.
“They must assist in awareness on the pandemic including protocols on social distancing especially in public motor vehicles, washing of hands and sanitizing, face masks are mandatory,” Tabali said.
He said currently police were engaged in awareness with officers from the Kokopo City Authority.
Police officers at Ralum have also been urged to go for testing if they are feeling symptoms of Covid-19.
He said there has been an increase in Covid-19 cases and the circular instruction from the Provincial Controller- Wilson Matava is that every public servant must assist in one or another and go out with health officers to do awareness on the ‘Niupla Pasin’.
The PPC said people must take heed of protocols in place and not to move around unnecessarily.
He reminded of PMV seating arrangement limits:
Buses- 15 seater- 10 passengers only
25 seater- 15 passengers only
30 seater- 15 passengers only
PMV Trucks- 30 seater capacity- 15 passengers only
20 seater capacity- 15 passengers only
15 seater capacity- 10 passengers only
Mr Tabali said drivers and passengers at all times must wear masks and sanitize all passengers’ hands.
Business operations in ENB will remain as per Business Operations Protocols. There are no changes to the timing and owners and security officers are tasked to ensure the “No Mask No Service Policy” is vigorously enforced.