Policemen over 55 told to stay home

Those in 50-55 age group asked to avoid field work

22/04/2020, VIVEK NARAYANAN,CHENNAI

In the wake of a sub-inspector testing positive for Covid-19, the city police have asked policemen between the ages of 55 and 58 to stay home and those between 50 and 55 years to avoid field work.

A few days ago, a sub-inspector attached to the Esplanade police station tested positive for COVID-19.

All his colleagues underwent checks and tested negative.

“He had joined our station a few weeks ago and his colleagues said that he used to take all precautions. We, along with health and Chennai Corporation officials are tracing his contacts,” said a senior police officer.

Apart from personnel at the Esplande police station, around 1,000 other policemen underwent tests and the results are awaited. “Considering the present situation, we have decided not to use policemen above the age of 50 for field work,” said a senior police officer.

Many said that though the department had provided them with masks and gloves, the danger of contracting the virus remained high.

“Mainly during vehicle checks, we have to interact with motorists. We are risking our lives and those of our families, but the public does not seem to be bothered,” said a police constable from Tambaram.