Zimbabwe police to enforce coronavirus lockdown measures as active cases continue to rise

Zimbabwe police yesterday vowed to enforce coronavirus lockdown measures because individuals and churches were now flouting the regulations thus compromising the nation’s safety.

In a statement yesterday police said the country was still under a curfew from 10pm to 6am the following day.

Police said they were concerned that some people no longer valued the wearing of masks and did not observe social distancing or sanitization and were flouting public gathering restrictions.

“Covid-19 is real and the public should avoid being complacent and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to curtail the spread of the pandemic,” police said.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police reminds the public that gatherings allowed by the government should strictly observe and comply with the requirement of 100 or less at church gatherings, 50 or less people at funerals, low risk sports and sports clubs.

“Let us take note that weddings, birthday, house parties, political and other social gatherings which include musical shows and concerts are still banned. Church leaders are warned against hosting or convening all night prayers.”

Police said night clubs, bars, beer halls and casinos were not allowed to operate.

Kombis and pirate taxis were not allowed to operate and so were shebeens.

The police warning comes amid concerns about the rising number of active cases in the country. The number has increased by 356 from 230 at the beginning of this month to 586 yesterday.

Twenty-two people have also died this month with the national death tolling rising from 243 to 265.

The total number of cases rose from 8 367 to 9 046.

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