By Monday, over 200 people in North West had been arrested and charged for contravening regulations of the Disaster Management Act after failing to stay at home.

“The suspects were arrested after failing to confine to their residential places. People were also arrested for movement between the metropolitan and district areas, misrepresentation that he/she or any other person is infected with COVID-19, and for failure to close liquor premises and adhering to prohibition of gathering,” said Department of Community Safety and Transport Management spokesperson, Alpheus Koonyaditse.

MEC Sello Lehari expressed his gratitude to men and women in law enforcement for their hard work in ensuring compliance of citizens on lockdown regulations.

“Our law enforcement authorities are working day and night to ensure that people are adhering to the regulations of COVID-19. Our intention is not to harass the citizens, but we need to ensure total compliance to the lockdown.”

He said social distancing seems to be a challenge at shopping malls, shops, ATMs and other places where people receive essential services.