Federal judge Gustavo Gelpí expressed caution this afternoon about the government’s plans to activate, as of Sunday, the Puerto Rico National Guard (GNPR) to carry out “informative work” on the application of the curfew.
The magistrate insisted this afternoon that in order for military personnel to work together with members of the Police, they have to “adhere” to what is established in the Police Reform agreement.
“The government, as occurred during the July 2019 state of emergency, must keep the Police Monitor up to date regarding the use of non-Police personnel. The monitor is also available, just as it was then, to assist the Police in any matter or capacity, “said Gelpí.
In interview with The new day In the morning, GNPR spokesman Paul Dahlen provided certain details about the operation, which will also involve Fire Department personnel.
“There are going to be military vehicles on the street, not necessarily working with the police, but informing the public about the importance of staying home and following the executive order,” said Dahlen.
The National Guard will concentrate on the metropolitan area, but will make rounds of towns outside the area. They will be using a megaphone to give information and music. Some musicians from Puerto Rico will join the initiative, but who was not detailed.
Sunday will be the first Sunday that the new executive order stipulates that supermarkets be closed, a measure to force citizens to stay at home.
Dahlen indicated that the GNPR is also preparing to help, if necessary, in the patrol.
The official added that they coordinate a training with the Police so that some soldiers are ready in case they need to activate to support surveillance tasks. However, in order for them to offer their services, they need the approval of federal judge Gustavo Gelpí and the police monitor.
“We are not going to start this on Sunday, we just want to have it ready just in case. I understand that the police situation is under control “, assured the spokesman.
In Puerto Rico, the National Guard has about 8,000 active troops.
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