ZRP urges citizens to observe govt directives to prevent COVID-19

Harare (New Ziana) – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) said on Friday it will be out in full force to ensure citizens observe all directives and regulations that the government issued as measures to prevent COVID-19.

Early this week, the government declared the COVID-19 pandemic a national disaster to allow it to mobilise resources and take necessary measures to deal with it.

The government also banned all gatherings of more than 100 people including church services, weddings and sports events.

It also postponed the independence celebrations and International Trade Fair which were set for next month as well shut down all small border entry points.

In light of the measures and restrictions, the ZRP appealed for cooperation from members of the public.

“In view of the COVID-19 pandemic and the measures put in place by the government of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Republic Police will ensure that all government directives and regulations meant to step up the safety and security of citizens are prioritised,” the police said in a statement.

“The government’s ban of 100 or more people, be it at church, music, soccer and any other gatherings should therefore be observed. Police are conducting patrols, surveillance and checks to ensure compliance.”

The ZRP said it was also training its medical staff in order to professionally manage cases of COVID-19 and the screening of visitors to its establishments.

“On the other hand, non medical staff/police COVID reaction groups are going to be trained in collaboration with relevant stakeholders. They will then assist medical personnel in the event of a case being reported and the management of the screening process,” it said.

On Thursday, the government launched country’s preparedness and response plan for COVID-19 as part of broader preventative measures against the deadly virus.

Other measures put in place include setting up COVID-19 rapid response teams and state of the art testing and quarantine facilities.

So far, the measures that the government has put in place, including mandatory screening for all visitors at ports of entry, have kept Zimbabwe Covid-19 free.

New Ziana