Uganda Police Force has tasked all Territorial Commanders, to conduct heightened and stricter enforcement operations during the curfew and the other Covid-19 protocols.
The development follows a dangerous and more transmissible strain of Covid-19, similar to that in India which has been confirmed in Uganda.
CP Fred Enanga the police spokesperson says that the Joint Security Agencies, have heightened enforcement of the Covid-19 measures, including the nightly curfews.
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.
Enanga says 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.
“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. We believe this will help reduce the reckless and risky interactions at night which increase opportunity for disease transmission” Enanga says.
He added that they have intensified inspections, checks and raids to counter all violations and defaulters of the curfew and Covid-19 SOPS.
The areas of interest include; bars operating illegally, places of entertainment, gatherings of more than 200 people (except under very exceptional circumstances by the Ministry of Health).
Also targeted are motorists who are not observing the load capacity of 70% especially in taxis, mini buses, buses and salon cars.
Meanwhile, all boda bodas and passengers outside the 6pm limit, will be countered.
He added that to avoid disruptions and inconveniences, members of the public and all motorists are encouraged to abide by the health and safety SOPs from the Ministry of Health and ensure they are in their homes by 9pm.
“Let us not wait until either ourselves or our loved ones are hospitalised for Covid-19, for one to start getting more vigilant.
Therefore, all persons found breaching the Ministry of Health SOPs and the curfew timings, will be subjected fines, penalties and or court action. All motorists outside the essential category, caught in the curfew will have their movements disrupted and motorcycles or motor vehicles impounded” he warned.
Enanga added that the public should know that the measures 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.
