Police chief worried over breaking of social distancing rules

POLICE inspector general Sebastian Ndeitunga said he is concerned about large gatherings at funerals and weddings in Omaheke, Ohangwena and Omusati regions despite social distancing regulations.

Although there has been no cases of community transmission of Covid-19 in Namibia, the police chief cautioned communities not to let their guards down by exposing themselves through attending large gatherings.

Ndeitunga in an interview with on Friday said such mass gatherings are prime spots for the spread of the virus.

The police chief called on the police regional commanders and the security forces to enforce the law diligently without fear or favour if anyone is found contravening it.

“The police should make sure they stump down these types of behaviours and bring people to book. They should issue fines and arrested people who are not adhering to the law because they are risking the lives of everybody, not only in the regions, but in the (whole) country,” said Ndeitunga.

From 2 June when the rest of the country moves to stage 3 of the state of emergency, large gatherings will be limited to 50 people.

In the Walvis Bay local authority area, which reverted back to stage 1, gatherings are limited to 10 people.

President Hage Geingob when he announced the migration to stage 3 of the state of emergency last week Thursday, said relaxation in restrictions does not imply the disappearance of Covid-19.

“To the contrary, reduced restrictions demand heightened personal vigilance and greater responsibility on individuals, communities and institutions alike,” the president said.

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