Members of the National Police of Peru will be among the first to get
announced on Sunday during the ceremony marking the 32nd anniversary of the institution.
"In a few weeks, we will start a large-scale vaccination process to protect the population from COVID-19 effects, and police participation will be essential and indispensable for tackling this challenge," he said.
The Head of State affirmed that a timely, efficient, and fair distribution of the vaccine throughout the country will be secured only with police support.
"You, along with health care workers, will be the first to receive the vaccine to give you and your families peace of mind," he told members of the National Police.
According to the statesman, the police's task of ensuring public safety is now more important than ever, given that the members participate in the fight against organized crime, respond to natural events, protect women and children who are victims of violence, help vulnerable people, maintain public order, and contribute to the consolidation of democracy during elections.
He noted that over 140 members of this institution have been fighting on the front line against the pandemic, a work that the State recognizes, as well as the cost of such fight and the pain it caused them and their families.
"We will always remember those who risked their lives to fulfill their sacred mission against an invisible enemy that claims the lives of thousands of Peruvians," he said after asking for a minute of silence in memory of 516 victims.
Additionally, Sagasti urged the police to set an example of what a good citizen should be, by being aware of the obligation to show an impeccable behavior.
He emphasized that those who dishonor the institution, betray the ideals of citizen service by committing unnecessary excesses, and perpetrate improper acts that are detrimental to the police will be investigated —following due process— brought to justice, and punished.
(END) FHG/RMB