DEFYING Government’s directive on wearing face masks
yesterday proved costly for a Harare man who was fined $500.
The Government recently announced that the wearing of masks
was now a legal requirement. In terms of new health regulations gazetted on
Saturday, those who fail to wear masks in public face punitive action or
imprisonment of up to one year.
After the gazetting of the new law, police warned people
against violating the law. Unfortunately, Munashe Katsande (27) became the
first one to be arrested under the new law.
He was caught walking along Prince Edward Road in Harare
without wearing a face mask. National police spokesperson Assistant
Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest.
“Yes, I can confirm that Katsande was arrested by officers
for walking in the streets without wearing a face mask. He has since been fined
$500 for the offence.
“We continue to urge members of the public to adhere to
this measure. We are there to enforce it and as we always say, police will not
hesitate to arrest those who choose to disregard the lockdown measure,” he
said.
Meanwhile, the number of people arrested for disregarding
the lockdown measures has increased to 20 450.
Asst Comm Nyathi said police will continue to arrest until
there is total compliance across the country.
“We continue to call members of the public to comply with
the COVID-19 lockdown measures. There are still those who are conducting
businesses without exemptions. Some are still engaging in unsanctioned
gatherings which include conducting church services, parties and drinking beer
during the night. Some are still operating shebeens.
“Some are still attempting to travel without exemption
letters while others are going out to public places without wearing masks. All
those will be arrested and we will be very strict until there is compliance,”
he said.
He said no one will be allowed to pass a police checkpoint
without proper documentation.
“People should prove where they are going. We appeal to
exempted companies to give their employees letters stating that they offer
essential services.” Herald
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