Uganda arrests thousands for violating Covid-19 prevention measures

The Ugandan police have arrested 2,124 people accused of flouting Covid-19 prevention procedures.

Police in a statement issued on Monday said the suspects were arrested in different parts of the country, “as the force continues to enforce the pandemic prevention procedures amid a surge in the number of cases.”

“All our territorial commanders have become more punitive in our approach to Covid-19 infractions. We continue to punish offenders with fines, penalties and charges as one way of bringing the epidemic under control,” the statement said.

It added that last week, 445 vehicles and 2,088 motorcycles were impounded for violating the curfew.

“We urge all Ugandans and visitors that everyone has a role to play in stopping the spread of the virus. Enforcement is only one component,” the statement said.

Police said the focus will now be put on ensuring that in public transport, trading centres, congregations at worship centres and weddings among others, follow the prevention procedures such as social distancing, hand washing, and constant wearing of face mask.

Uganda is currently facing the second wave of the pandemic, which is more deadly and devastating, according to the ministry of health.

Figures released by the ministry on Monday show that as of Saturday, the country recorded 524 new COVID-19 cases, bringing the nationwide count of infections to 47,147.

A total of 43,401 recoveries and 362 deaths have been registered since the outbreak was declared in the East African country in March 2020.

Edited by Olajumoke Adeleke