More escape from quarantine centres in Zimbabwe

Last updated on September 11th, 2021 at 02:46 pm

TWO more returnees escaped from Covid-19 quarantine centres in Mashonaland East and Matabeleland North provinces on Tuesday last week as police intensified operations by arresting 1 191 people on the same day for violating lockdown regulations.

The total number of escapees is now 120 while those arrested for breaching lockdown regulations are now 42 929 since inception on March 30 this year.

National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi yesterday said the two escaped from quarantine facilities at Mabhikwa High School in Matabeleland North and Marondera High School.

“This brings to 120, the total number of returnees who have escaped since the inception of the lockdown.

However, 79 people have been arrested for entry by evasion and smuggling since May 16, 2020.

“We continue to urge members of the public to be vigilant and observe safety and security measures in order to safeguard themselves and others from the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said. Of the 1 191 arrested last Tuesday, most of them were making unnecessary movements and were not wearing masks.

Government recently gazetted a law compelling all people to wear face masks in public.

In terms of new health regulations, those who fail to wear face masks are liable to a $500 fine or imprisonment of up to one year.

Police this week said they were concerned about the high number of returnees who were escaping from quarantine centres as they were putting the lives of other people in danger.

The police also urged the public to be cautious before accepting any returnees and ensure that they go through the Covid-19 vetting process, which was being coordinated by the Ministry of Health and Child Care.

(TheHerald)