Police reception counters reopen after Covid cases

Keilor Downs police station. Photo by Damjan Janevski. 251761_05

Tara Murray

The reception counters at three of the four local police stations closed early last week due to COVID-19 cases, reopened on Thursday.

The front counters at Sunshine, Keilor Downs, Caroline Springs and Melton police stations were shut after six staff members across the local division tested positive for COVID-19 between September 17 and 19.

A number of other staff across those stations had to isolate as a consequence.

A police spokesperson said that the counters at Sunshine, Keilor and Melton had re-opened on Thursday, but the counter at Caroline Springs remained closed.

“The Caroline Springs reception counter remains closed after officers in the division tested positive to coronavirus (COVID-19),“ the spokesperson said.

“The reception closure allows for more police to be out on the road while some officers are safely isolating due to the coronavirus exposure.

“Police continue to work from the stations and are actively patrolling the community 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“Victoria Police’s priority first and foremost is to ensure the safety of its people and the community.”

Those who had non urgent matters were encouraged to call 131 444 or use the online reporting service.

The spokesperson said Victoria Police wouldn’t be providing updates on how many officers had tested positive for COVID-19.