Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker contracts Covid-19

Readers have been asking where the Territory’s top cop has gone. Now NT Police has revealed his whereabouts.

POLICE Commissioner Jamie Chalker has contracted Covid-19.

Readers in recent days had been asking for Mr Chalker’s whereabouts, noticing that he had not made any public appearances.

Following questions from the NT News, a spokesman for NT Police confirmed Mr Chalker had contracted the virus and was due to return to duties on Monday next week.

Deputy Police Commissioner Michael Murphy was acting in the role in Mr Chalker’s absence.

NT top cop’s surprise statement on future

JAMIE Chalker has rubbished persistent rumours he’s out of his role as NT Police Commissioner.

Whispers were going around on Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning that the NT’s top cop was about to announce his resignation, following the departure of Michael Gunner.

The rumours reached such a level that it was even broadcast on radio, prompting the NT Police, Fire and Emergency Services media office to release a statement on Mr Chalker’s behalf.

“Contrary to unfounded reports aired in Darwin this morning I am not resigning as the Northern Territory Commissioner of Police and CEO of Fire and Emergency Services,” he said.

NT Police Commissioner Jamie Chalker has denied he’s going anywhere. Picture: Glenn Campbell

“I am incredibly proud of the agency I lead. Our members work tirelessly to serve and protect our community.”

Leadership changes are being made across the public service following Natasha Fyles becoming Chief Minister.

Jodie Ryan is understood to have resigned from her role as chief executive of the Department of Chief Minister and Cabinet. The Fifth Floor is also seeking a new Director of Communications.

Follow @thomasmorgan22