The Road Town Police Station has been reopened following temporary closure for sanitisation and disinfection. Photo: VINO/File

The East End Police Station was also temporarily closed for sanitisation and disinfection. Photo: VINO/File

Closure was to minimise risk of coronavirus spread

The closure of the two police stations was announced in a joint statement by Governor Augustus J.U. Jaspert and Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Carvin Malone (AL) on August 30, 2020.

“In order to minimise risk, the East End/Long Look and the Road Town Stations will be temporarily closed for deep cleaning and disinfection; however, other police resources have been put in place to ensure adequate coverage to protect those communities, enforce the curfew and maintain general law and order,” according to the statement.

Avoid visiting stations unless an emergency- RVIPF

The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) announced the reopening of the two police stations via press release late September 1, 2020.

It noted; however, that persons are encouraged where possible, to call in reports and avoid visiting any of the stations unless the situation is an emergency.

“In order to protect yourself, loved ones, other members of the public and the officers you may come in contact with, we are asking that you wear your mask at all times and sanitize frequently once outside of your homes.”

The RVIPF also reminded that it is an offense to be out in public without a mask.

"Protection starts with everyone taking ownership of their respective safety; and this can only be achieved if you wear a mask out in public, sanitise regularly and practice social distancing. Protect yourself and those you may encounter.”

COVID-19 infected officers removed from service

It was also announced in the joint statement by Governor Jaspert and Hon Malone that, as a result of contact tracing, members of the RVIPF were being screened for the virus that causes COVID-19, and a small number of officers tested positive.

“These officers have been removed from service and will remain in isolation until fully recovered. All members of their households and other close contacts, including other police officers, are being quarantined and tested. Out of an abundance of caution, all remaining police officers are being given priority for COVID-19 testing.”