UMBILO SAPS is temporarily closed for decontamination, and the public is urged to report any crimes to police based at the detective branch at 21 Canada Road, Congella.
Communications officer, Capt Pumzile Makaula, said the station closed last week after an officer tested positive for Covid-19, however she could not confirm if there had been any further cases this week.
Commenting after last week’s incident, Umbilo CPF chairperson, Heather Roos, said people needed to understand that the coronavirus was starting to affect not only the schools and shopping centres, but it was starting to hit police stations very hard.
She said when that happens, it plays havoc with service delivery as the station goes short staffed and has to close.
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“People need to understand that no one has control over this virus, it can’t just be used as an excuse for poor service delivery, it is a reality. When departments go down, that’s it, and they’re hit hard,” she said.
Roos said it was very worrying as all stations were being affected.
“This is a very difficult time for our police. The police members are human beings, and it’s not just them, they’re taking it home to their families, it is very stressful and very concerning,” she said.
If the station is closed again, complainants can call 10111 and the message will passed on via police radio to Umbilo SAPS.
“During this time, we urge all our security companies and vetted patrollers to assist us with patrols. Policing must go on and continue. We urge residents to stay safe and protected,” said Roos.
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