Solwezi Bar Owners Arrested for Defying Covid-19 Directive

Eight bar owners in Solwezi have been arrested after serving drinks despite a nationwide directive forcing all bars to close because of the coronavirus.

Police, accompanied by health inspectors from the Solwezi municipal council, apprehended the suspects during a patrol of businesses on Sunday.

A spokesperson for the council, Esther Chirwa, told reporters that the authorities had also confiscated the bars’ merchandise and revoked their liquor licenses. 

She commended Solwezi residents for reporting business owners who are flouting the safety measures put in place by President Lungu. 

The measures, which were enacted last week, call for the closure of all bars, nightclubs, gyms cinemas and casinos. Zambia has not yet declared an official state of emergency but non-essential international travel has also been suspended and public gatherings are limited to a maximum of 50 people.

Ms Chirwa said the measures were not intended to cripple business but rather to prevent the further spread of Covid-19. Those found not complying with the rules would be fast tracked into court, she said.

The total number of coronavirus cases in Zambia remains at 39, with no new cases confirmed in the past five days.