As a result of the emergence of a lethal strain of Covid-19, Joint Security Agencies have tightened the enforcement of the protocol, including the night curfew.
Following the emergence of a dangerous and more transmissible strain of Covid-19, the Joint Security Agencies has heightened the enforcement of the Covid-19 protocols including the night curfew.
Last month, the health ministry confirmed cases similar to the Indian variant.
The Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) Director Pontiano Kaleebu, disclosed that the detected case was from a group of individuals who had returned from Indian.
“We have so far detected one case but are on the lookout for others. We are not sure if these travelers had interacted with other people,” Kaleebu said last month.
However, in a statement dated April 09, Fred Enanga the police spokesperson said following the new infections, the police have decided to enforce
all measures to prevent the further spread of the virus.
Enanga said many people have in recent weeks relaxed all the necessary guidelines including washing hands and wearing masks but warned that this is dangerous because the virus is still even fast spreading.
“According to the Ministry of Health, there is evidence of the new Covid-19 strain in the country, and yet only 387,027 people have been vaccinated as of 5/05/2021. This is not encouraging, because many people are complacent and continue to go about their daily businesses and activities, without face masks, social distancing and or observation of proper hygiene of washing hands with soap,” Enanga said.
“As a result, we have tasked all our Territorial Commanders, to conduct heightened and stricter enforcement operations during the curfew and the other Covid-19 protocols. Therefore, all non-essential movements during the curfew timings of 9pm- 5.30am, are restricted.”
The police spokesperson indicated that this will help reduce the reckless and risky interactions at night which increase the opportunity for disease transmission.
He said they have intensified inspections, checks and raids to counter all violations and defaulters of the curfew and Covid-19 SOPS more so in areas including bars that are operating illegally, places of entertainment and gatherings of more than 200 people.
“Also target are motorists , who are not observing the load capacity of 70% , especially in taxis , mini buses , buses and salon cars. All boda bodas and passengers outside the 6pm limit, will be countered,” Enanga indicated.
“To avoid disruptions and inconveniences we encourage the public and all motorists to abide by the health and safety SOPs from the Ministry of Health and ensure they are in their homes by 9pm. Lets not wait until either ourselves or our loved ones are hospitalised for Covid-19, for one to start getting more vigilant.”
In addition, he said all persons found breaching the Ministry of Health SOPs and the curfew timings, will be subjected to fines, penalties and or court action.
Enanga noted that all motorists outside the essential category, caught in the curfew will have their movements disrupted and motorcycles or motor vehicles impounded.
“As we conclude, the public should know that the measures above are aimed at slowing the spread of a very contagious virus. And even though some people are frustrated due to Covid-19, fatigue, it is crucial to take the threats of COVID-19 seriously and not let our guards down,” he added.
