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NSW Police Commissioner Mick Fuller has formally requested the support of the Australian Defence Force to help tackle the state’s ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, NSW Police have announced.
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According to an announcement by NSW Police, the police force is expected to expand its footprint in Sydney in line with the new swathe of lockdown measures, with 300 defence members requested to support them in their activities.
The NSW Police and ADF have strengthened their ability to work together throughout the pandemic, Commissioner Fuller outlined.
“The assistance of the ADF has been essential over the past 18 months – particularly during last year’s border operation, the ongoing hotel quarantine operation and the assistance provided with logistics support in the Police Operations Centre,” Commissioner Fuller said.
“With an increase in enforcement activity over the coming week, I have now made a formal request to the Prime Minister for ADF personnel to assist with that operation.
“I would like to thank the Prime Minister for his ongoing support.”
The Berejiklian state government was aware of the Commissioner’s official request for assistance from the federal government.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said that the unique skillset of the ADF would be of use in the current outbreak.
“There is a longstanding and highly-professional relationship between the NSW Police Force and the ADF,” Minister Elliott said.
“As I have said previously, support from the Army will add another line of defence to the NSW government’s crackdown on COVID-19 compliance.
“The Army’s unique skills and training have combined many times with those of our police officers to serve the people of NSW in times of crisis, such as the floods and severe bushfires we’ve experienced in recent years.
“This will be a functional, effective and dynamic team to fight this pandemic.”
More to follow.
