A Transport ministry employee has appeared in court for
allegedly disclosing the positive status of a coronavirus (Covid-19) patient in
a Whatsapp group.
Jimmy Mhlanga, 40, appeared before Harare magistrate Barbra
Mateko charged with contravening sections of the Public Health Act which
criminalise disclosing of information relating to one’s health status,
treatment or stay in health establishment.
He was granted $500 bail, ordered to continue residing at
his current address and not to interfere with witnesses until the matter is
finalised.
The matter was remanded to June 4. Prosecutor Terence
Mashaire alleged that on April 16, at 41 Devaris Flats, Bluffhill, Harare
Mhlanga disclosed the positive status of a Covid-19 patient, her particulars
and those of police officers suspected to have made contact with her.
The court heard Mhlanga shared the message on a Whatsapp
group called “Think tank no under 18”. According to the State, Mhlanga disclosed the information
without the consent or authority of the patient.
His cell phone allegedly used to commit the offence was
seized by the police who arrested him and is currently held as an exhibit.
Daily News
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