Joint Security Agencies in Uganda have heightened enforcement of the Covid-19 measures including the nightly curfews to due to the emergency of a dangerous and more transmissible strain of Covid-19, similar to that in India.
Fred Enanga,police spokesperson revealed that the Ministry of Health, has 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.
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. We have intensified inspections , checks and raids to counter all violations and defaulters of the curfew and Covid-19 SOPS. Our areas of interest include; bars operating illegally, places of entertainment, gatherings of more than 200 people (except under very exceptional circumstances by the MinistryofHealth). 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”,he said.
He added that”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.
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”
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.