This follows after the station was temporarily closed when a police officer tested positive for the coronavirus (Covid-19). According to Brigadier Motantsi Makhele all health protocols have since been followed and the affected member has been isolated accordingly. Makhele adds that the Zamdela police station started operating again on Wednesday evening.

Primary and secondary contacts of the positive member were also tested and are back at work after they received their results. Those still awaiting their results are currently in self-isolation pending the outcome of their tests.

The Provincial Commissioner of the South African Police Service in the Free State, Lt-General Baile Motswenyane, expressed her gratitude to the various stakeholders who opened their doors and allowed the police to utilise their facilities as temporary police stations.

“I appreciate the unwavering good gesture that was displayed by these stakeholders in providing us with a space to render services at their respective facilities. Your understanding did not go unnoticed and on behalf of the police, I say thank you. We will definitely need help in other parts of the province, should it become necessary to close other police facilities due to members becoming affected by the virus. Our members are on the forefront and are susceptible to contracting the virus,” said Motswenyane.

She also thanked the community for their patience and assured them that policing in the province will not be hampered. “Closing of the station/s for decontamination is in line with the government’s guidelines to manage and control the spread of Covid-19. We urge the community members to be patient with us and we can assure them that there are contingency plans in place to ensure that policing in their communities continues during these difficult times,” she said.

She also thanked the SAPS members and employees for their commitment during this challenging time and encouraged them to take precautions to be safe at all times. “The management of the SAPS would like to thank you for your unwavering commitment in serving and protecting the people of the Free State. Protecting yourselves while you serve and protect others is our utmost priority,” she added.   

She concluded by thanking the media for their efforts to keep community members informed. 

Statement supplied.