The number of people who have been arrested for violating restrictions imposed by Government during the 21-lockdown which commenced on Monday has risen to over 1 500, police have revealed.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi told Sunday News that as of Saturday afternoon, 1 516 people had been arrested for offences which include operating shebeens, traffic offences, opening bars as well as moving around with no purpose. He said:
From the first day up to today (yesterday) we have arrested a total of 1 516 for various offences throughout the country which include the issue of operating shebeens, traffic offences and people who are trying to open bars yet they are no exception. We also have some businesses that are trying to open when they should not be opened.
People are also not observing the issue of social distancing and we are saying people must observe social distancing guidelines as given by the Government.
People should also stay indoors, we have had a challenge of people who are moving around without reason. Some are driving and some are walking on the streets particularly after 5 pm. We are asking those people to stay indoors and observe safety measures.
The government has exempted several businesses which provide essential services from the lockdown. Supermarkets generally open at 9 am and close at 3 pm, with police officers ensuring that people observe social distancing to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
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“…with police officers ensuring that people observe social distancing …”. Yesterday outside a supermarket here was a queue of 50+ shoppers none of whom were observing the social distance parameter. On the other side of the road was a group of 6 policemen hanginh around their pick-up.