POLICE have banned the sale of alcohol in retail outlets
countrywide in the wake of the 21-day national lockdown to mitigate the spread
of Covid-19.
The ban was effected yesterday to minimise social disorder
and allow shops to sell only “essential” products during the shutdown.
President Mnangagwa last week declared a national 21-day
lockdown to curb the spread of Covid-19 that will run until April 16. The virus
has infected over 980 000 people worldwide, killing over 50 000.
In Zimbabwe there are eight confirmed cases of Covid-19 and
one death.
Police have been deployed in full force to take action on
shops that defy the ban. A snap survey by our Bulawayo Bureau yesterday showed
that shops around town had stopped selling alcohol, although the shelves and
fridges were full to the brim.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul
Nyathi said the measure came as rowdy citizens were defying social distancing
measures.
“The lockdown measures were clearly stated and in light of
ensuring that we fight Covid-19, there will be no sale of alcohol at any point
in places like bottle stores and supermarkets. This comes as we have realised
that people who buy alcohol at supermarkets are giving us challenges. They buy
and drink as groups, be it either in their vehicles or places of residence
thereby defying social distancing,” said Asst Comm Nyathi.
“Action will be taken on all those who will defy the order
and sell alcohol at any bases. The police today (yesterday) started to take
full action and will be visible on the ground throughout the lockdown.”
He urged citizens to stay indoors to protect themselves and
their families.
“People should take heed of Covid-19 and put their health
first and that of every citizen in the country as the pandemic is affecting all
of us,” he said.
Asst Comm Nyathi said police will be closely monitoring
that there are no sales of alcohol in residential areas. Herald
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