BRIEFS. metro

Social security services to arm guards

la prensa

Eladio Fernández1119891

The announcement by the country’s Social Security Services that it will provide arms for security guards posted at payment departments has raised red flags among members of the Independent National Confederation of Retirees and Pensioners.

According to the group’s chairman, Eladio Fernández, the measure could be used to punish those who are frequently protesting in front of the different branches of the institution.

“We don’t understand how they can invest $12 million in weapons but can’t find the resources to tend to real priorities for the insured, such as the lack of medicine, wheelchairs, stretchers, damaged and outdated equipment, and shortage of prosthetics.”

The director of revenue for Social Security Services explained that a wave of robberies has forced the institution to protect both employers and policyholders who access the facilities. He added that some of the health centers collect more than $90 million in payments for services, making them a target of thieves.

Additionally, Social Security Services facilities will be equipped with video surveillance systems.