Police worries about high lockdown violations

Harare, (New Ziana)-Police on Thursday raised concern at the way citizens throughout the country have become complacent and are violating the Covid-19 national lockdown measures.

In a statement, national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said there was an increase in numbers of citizens who were flouting lockdown regulations by committing various offences which include unnecessary movements, liquor offences among others.

“In Harare, Bulawayo, Gweru, Mutare and Masvingo motorists are transporting commuters in open defiance of the lockdown measures. Motorists are warned against conniving with unruly security service members to gain passage at check points as they will be dealt with in terms of the law,” he said.

“Members of the public should take note that the lockdown and curfew order are still in force and police will arrest all those found violating these regulations and ensure only essential service providers are accessing Central Business Districts.”

Cumulatively, police have arrested 389 944 people since the first national Covid-19 lockdown on 30 March 2020.

“Meanwhile, 3 236 people were arrested on03 February 2021 for contravening Covid-19 regulations throughout the country. 997 people were arrested for not wearing masks while 1 756 were nabbed for unnecessary movement. The total number of people arrested since 30 March 2020 is now 389 944,” he said.

Ass Com Nyathi added : “The police reiterates its call for the public to stay at home, mask up and comply with all safety measures put in place by Government to avoid spreading of the Covid-19 pandemic and avoid being found on the wrong side of the law.”

New Ziana