Chief of Defence Force Major General Abdulla Shamaal has affirmed Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) is watchful and alert over any possible threats during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Maldives.
Speaking to the public in a video message, Major General Shamaal said the military is always vigilant and fully prepared over possible threats to the sovereignty of the Maldives. He stated MNDF is working day and night to protect the people.
Stating a number of military personnel are currently committed to the efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19, the defence chief said MNDF will fight against any threats. Additionally, Shamaal said combat units are fully prepared to mitigate a possible threat, adding most army officers engaged in containing the spread of COVID-19 are support service units.
Military personnel have been assigned the responsibility of managing over 25 quarantine facilities set up across the country and army officers from all ranks have engaged in the efforts against COVID-19, staying away from their families for over three months. Over 40 army officers have so far tested positive for COVID-19.
Major General Shamaal said the numbers have been expected as military personnel are working on the frontline to contain the spread and facilitate better management during the pandemic. He said the measures have been taken to protect the personnel of the armed forces.
Although the soldiers have been working with protective measures and training, they have been very prone to COVID-19 as it is highly contagious. The defence chief added the army is ready to fight the cause to the best of their abilities.