Australian Federal Police recruits caught having a late-night party amid government-enforced lockdowns face the prospect of being kicked out of the college, the ABC reports.
A video obtained by the broadcaster showed the cadets last week partying inside their Canberra residential college and not complying with social distancing restrictions.
Current rules dictate that indoor and outdoor gatherings must be restricted to two people - with the exception of a household.
They also urge Australians to keep 1.5 metres apart from each other to help slow the spread of coronavirus.
One college employee has told the ABC they expected "a few of them to get sacked". Other sources said some members in the group responded poorly when the ACT Police confronted them about the party.
"An unknown number of them abused a female staff member and a superintendent when they were told to quiet down," a college employee said, as reported by the ABC.
It is believed the college is now alcohol-free.
The AFP confirmed the "internal recruit gathering" was held the night of 3 April and an investigation is underway.
Police on horses enforce social distancing regulations at Bondi Beach. Source: AAP
Its spokesperson said it expected members to comply with the law and relevant health directions.
"All current residents of the AFP College are AFP recruits in training and are isolated as much as possible under the current environment at the College and designated AFP training areas," he said.
"The recruits at the AFP College were fully briefed on all COVID 19 requirements, including social distancing, prior to 3 April.
"Any identified alleged breaches in behaviour by AFP recruits will be deemed totally unacceptable and will be subject to disciplinary actions."
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others and gatherings are limited to two people unless you are with your family or household.
If you believe you may have contracted the virus, call your doctor (don’t visit) or contact the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080. If you are struggling to breathe or experiencing a medical emergency, call 000.
SBS is committed to informing Australia’s diverse communities about the latest COVID-19 developments. News and information is available in 63 languages at sbs.com.au/coronavirus.
